During a surprise late-night address, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared nationwide martial law, citing the need to "eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect constitutional order." It is the first time a South Korean president has declared martial law since the military dictatorship ended in 1987. The move comes amid a looming impeachment of Yoon by the opposition party that controls Parliament, which he has accused of sympathizing with North Korea and undermining the government with "anti-state" activities.
Following the declaration, lawmakers gathered at the National Assembly building and held an emergency vote to negate the martial law. The vote passed with 190 lawmakers voting to lift the declaration. Soldiers were seen leaving the National Assembly building shortly after the vote. Martial law can be lifted with a majority vote of the National Assembly; however, the declaration bans all political activities, including those of the National Assembly, so it remains to be seen how the crisis plays out.
South Korean army chief, Park An-Soo, was named martial law commander, and he banned all political activities and placed all media under military control. There are unconfirmed reports of armored military vehicles in Seoul, along with military jets landing near the National Assembly building in Seoul.
Disruptions in the country can be expected in the coming days.
What Does this Mean
Expected Impacts of Martial Law
- Media and communication censorship
- Restrictions on freedom of movement and public assembly
- Possible requisition of private property
Directives
- Expanded Powers of the Martial Law Commander: Oversight of administrative and judicial functions within martial law regions.
- Restriction of Basic Rights: Possible limitations on freedom of the press, publication, assembly, and association.
- Establishment of Military Courts: Civilian trials for specific crimes under military jurisdiction.
- Control of Administrative and Judicial Functions: To be placed under the direction of the martial law commander.
- Strikes Banned: All healthcare workers on strike are ordered to report to work within 48 hours.
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