(DailyVantage.com) – South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, accusing opposition parties of engaging in anti-state activities and threatening the nation’s democracy. This is the first time martial law has been imposed in South Korea since 1980, plunging the country into political turmoil.
In a late-night address, Yoon defended the decision, alleging that opposition lawmakers had taken the parliamentary process “hostage,” undermining the government’s ability to function. He cited alleged North Korean influence and accused “pro-North Korean anti-state forces” of destabilizing South Korea. Yoon described the move as essential to preserving national stability and protecting the country’s democratic principles.
The declaration was met with immediate resistance. South Korea’s parliament, dominated by opposition parties, voted 190-0 to lift martial law in defiance of Yoon’s order. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung strongly condemned the decision, calling it “an unprecedented abuse of power” and warning that martial law would drive the nation into economic collapse. Lee also urged citizens to protest, further intensifying public dissent.
International reactions have been swift. The White House expressed “serious concern,” emphasizing that it had not been informed of the decision beforehand. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell called for a peaceful resolution of disputes, reaffirming the strength of the U.S.-South Korea alliance while urging adherence to democratic principles.
Domestically, Yoon’s administration has faced mounting challenges, including low approval ratings, opposition control of parliament, and personal controversies involving his wife. Critics argue that Yoon’s declaration is a desperate attempt to consolidate power amid political setbacks, including opposition roadblocks to his proposed budget and impeachment attempts targeting his top prosecutors.
The situation has escalated, with increased military and police presence surrounding the National Assembly. Yoon has vowed to restore order, but protests are spreading nationwide, and citizens continue to resist the administration’s actions. The ongoing turmoil has raised serious questions about South Korea’s political stability, the resilience of its democracy, and its standing on the international stage.
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