South Korean president declares emergency martial law, accusing opposition of anti-state activities
SUMMARY
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law on December 3, accusing the opposition-controlled parliament of anti-state activities and sympathizing with North Korea. In a televised address, Yoon vowed to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces” and restore the country’s democratic order, urging citizens to trust him despite anticipated “inconveniences.” The move has triggered widespread backlash. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung called the declaration “illegal and unconstitutional,” while Han Dong-hoon, a prominent figure in Yoon’s own conservative People Power Party, denounced it as “wrong” and pledged resistance. Critics allege Yoon is using martial law to suppress dissent and distract from declining approval ratings and ongoing scandals involving his administration. Tensions have been high, with deadlock over the budget and attempts by the opposition to impeach prosecutors investigating key opposition figures.
