South Korea’s National Assembly has unanimously overturned President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law, rejecting the controversial order just hours after it went into effect. Yoon claimed the measures were necessary to counter alleged threats from pro-North Korean factions within the Democratic Party.
In a televised address, Yoon announced martial law, banning political activities and placing media under government control. The declaration, effective at 11:00 p.m., also required striking medical workers to return to their jobs within 48 hours. Violators faced penalties, including arrest without warrants.
The declaration was met with swift condemnation from opposition lawmakers, who called it a “coup d’état.” The National Assembly convened an emergency session and voted 190-0 to lift the martial law order, effectively nullifying it.
“This was an attempt to undermine democratic principles,” said an opposition leader. “The National Assembly acted decisively to protect our constitution.”
Yoon defended his actions, stating the measures were necessary to protect South Korea’s liberal democracy from destabilizing forces. Critics, however, accused him of exploiting security concerns to justify authoritarian measures.
The incident has intensified political tensions in South Korea, highlighting divisions between Yoon’s administration and the opposition-controlled legislature. The swift repeal of the martial law order underscores the importance of legislative oversight in maintaining democratic norms.
