South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared martial law in the country. Following the announcement, the opposition gathered under an “emergency” code, while the military announced a ban on parliamentary and political activities.
A political crisis has erupted in South Korea, with martial law declared, opposition and ruling parties expressing objections, and the military imposing restrictions on political involvement. President Yoon made the announcement in a live broadcast on YTN, stating that there was no alternative but to implement such a “preventive” measure to protect the free and constitutional order. He accused opposition parties of trying to paralyze the parliamentary process in an attempt to push the country into crisis.
Yoon stated, “I declare martial law to protect the Free Republic of Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces, eliminate North Korea-aligned anti-state forces that plunder the freedom and happiness of our people, and preserve the free constitutional order.”
After the declaration, South Korea’s main opposition party called for an emergency meeting, urging lawmakers to gather in the National Assembly. The ruling party leader also stated that they did not support the imposition of martial law. Meanwhile, the South Korean Parliament has been closed, and lawmakers were reportedly unable to enter. The opposition has called on the public to assemble in the Parliament.
The military has also announced that all media and broadcasting organizations will be brought under control, and that parliamentary and party activities are prohibited.
