South Korea’s National Assembly has decisively voted to lift martial law declared earlier by President Yoon Suk Yeol. The resolution to annul the declaration, introduced by National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik, was passed unanimously by all 190 lawmakers present. The decision comes amid growing public dissent and political turbulence in the country.
Martial Law Declaration Sparks Uproar
In an unexpected late-night televised address, President Yoon declared martial law, citing the need to “protect the liberal constitutional order” and eliminate “pro-North Korean anti-state forces.” This marked the first invocation of martial law in South Korea since 1979. The announcement immediately led to confusion and widespread concern, with images of tanks on the streets and reports of helicopters landing on the parliament building further fuelling fears.
Yoon’s justification hinged on accusations of escalating threats from North Korea and alleged attempts by opposition forces to destabilise the government. However, opposition lawmakers and citizens have labelled the move a blatant power grab amid the president’s waning popularity and parliamentary deadlock.
Scenes of Chaos Inside and Outside Parliament
The martial law decree suspended parliamentary activities, with military and police forces barring access to the National Assembly. This prompted an urgent call from opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung for lawmakers and citizens to assemble at the legislative complex. Clashes between protesters and police were reported as demonstrators chanted slogans such as “No to martial law” and “Strike down dictatorship.” Riot police and barricades were deployed to control the growing crowd.
Inside the Assembly, tensions were equally high. Special forces were reportedly stationed within the building, though their purpose remained unclear. Despite these challenges, Speaker Woo convened the session to vote on lifting martial law. Lawmakers from both the ruling People Power Party and the opposition backed the resolution, underscoring a rare moment of bipartisan agreement against the president’s actions.
Public Alarm and International Concern
The president’s declaration drew immediate criticism domestically and abroad. Many South Koreans expressed alarm over the implications of martial law, including the suspension of civil rights and media freedoms. Seoul residents reported hearing helicopters and saw increased police activity, prompting some to prepare emergency kits.
The Biden administration, a close ally of South Korea, expressed concern and stated it was “monitoring the situation closely.” U.S. officials have remained in contact with South Korean authorities but refrained from issuing detailed comments.
Political Backdrop and Escalating Tensions
Yoon’s martial law declaration follows months of political gridlock. The president has faced a hostile opposition-dominated parliament since a landslide general election victory for the Democratic Party. Unable to pass key legislation, Yoon has been limited to vetoing opposition-led bills while dealing with personal scandals, including corruption allegations involving his wife.
The immediate trigger for the crisis appears to be parliamentary moves to slash the government budget and impeach cabinet members over alleged misconduct. Yoon, who described the situation as an attempt by “anti-state” forces to paralyse the country, opted for what many consider a desperate “nuclear option.”
Legislative Action Restores Order
South Korea’s legal framework allows for the annulment of martial law by parliamentary vote, provided a majority opposes it. This mechanism proved crucial in defusing the crisis. Lawmakers from both the Democratic Party and Yoon’s People Power Party denounced the president’s actions as unconstitutional and worked swiftly to restore normalcy.
The resolution to lift martial law marks a critical juncture in South Korean politics. While the immediate threat to democracy has been averted, the episode has exposed deep divisions and raised questions about Yoon’s ability to govern effectively. His decision to bypass traditional political processes has likely further eroded his already fragile standing.
Looking Ahead
As South Korea emerges from this extraordinary political and constitutional crisis, the focus will now shift to the consequences for President Yoon’s administration. Calls for accountability are expected to grow, with opposition lawmakers signalling intentions to investigate the president’s actions and his broader leadership.
Public sentiment remains volatile, with protests continuing in major cities. The events have highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions in times of political strife and underscored the importance of bipartisan cooperation in safeguarding constitutional order.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the resolution passed by parliament will pave the way for political stability or deepen the divisions within South Korea’s democratic framework.
