South Korea Lifts Martial Law Hours After Declaration
Lawmakers vote down President Yoon's martial law declaration, ending a tense political standoff.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lifted martial law early Wednesday following a dramatic night of political turmoil. The martial law decree, imposed late Tuesday, was swiftly overturned when lawmakers in parliament voted against it in a rare show of bipartisan unity.
By 4:30am, military personnel had withdrawn from the National Assembly grounds, and the martial law order was formally nullified during a Cabinet meeting.
Tensions Erupt Over Martial Law Declaration
President Yoon's late-night announcement of martial law, citing the need to eliminate "anti-state forces," was met with immediate resistance from lawmakers. Yoon, facing challenges from an opposition-led parliament, accused his political opponents of sympathizing with communist North Korea.
National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik declared the decree invalid, emphasizing that lawmakers were committed to "protecting democracy with the people." The unexpected martial law declaration evoked memories of South Korea’s authoritarian past, drawing condemnation from both opposition leaders and members of Yoon’s own party.
Opposition Stands Firm
Lee Jae-myung, leader of the majority Democratic Party, criticized Yoon’s actions as an attack on democracy. Democratic lawmakers occupied the Assembly’s main hall until martial law was formally lifted.
Security camera footage reportedly showed military personnel preparing to arrest key political figures, including Lee, Woo, and even Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s People Power Party. Yoon’s office and the Defense Ministry declined to comment.
Protests and Scuffles Outside Parliament
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the National Assembly, calling for Yoon’s impeachment. Tensions flared as some demonstrators clashed with soldiers, though no major injuries were reported.
Questions Raised About Martial Law Grounds
Under South Korean law, martial law can only be declared during wartime or extreme national emergencies. Critics questioned whether the current situation justified such measures. The constitution also requires the president to lift martial law if parliament votes to revoke it, as it did in this case.
President Yoon’s move has reignited debates about South Korea’s democratic principles and the balance of power between the presidency and parliament. For now, lawmakers and citizens alike are left questioning the motives behind the dramatic declaration.