General
South Korea President Yoon says he will lift martial law
On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing the need to eliminate “anti-state” forces and protect the nation’s constitutional order. This unprecedented move, reminiscent of South Korea’s authoritarian past, was met with swift opposition. The National Assembly convened promptly, with 190 out of 300 members present, and voted unanimously to lift the martial law declaration.
Following the parliamentary vote, President Yoon announced his intention to honor the legislature’s decision and lift martial law. He indicated that he attempted to assemble the cabinet to formalize this action but faced delays due to the early morning hours. President Yoon assured the public that he would proceed with lifting martial law as soon as the minimum required number of cabinet members could be gathered.
This series of events has intensified political tensions in South Korea, drawing criticism from both opposition parties and members of President Yoon’s conservative People Power Party.