Reports from the State Korean news agency reveal that hundreds of armed South Korean soldiers entered the country's parliament grounds last night. This action came in response to President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief declaration of martial law, which was subsequently lifted.
National Assembly Secretary General Kim Min-ki provided details during a briefing on Wednesday. According to Kim, approximately 230 soldiers arrived via helicopters, while an additional 50 troops crossed over the walls of the National Assembly.
Despite initial attempts to enter through the main entrance and rear reception area, the soldiers resorted to breaking windows with hammers and rifles to gain access to the building.
During the incident, some National Assembly staff sustained injuries. Efforts are currently underway to assess the number and severity of these injuries.
A 52-second CCTV video released by the senior official captured the troops' entry onto the grounds, including the landing of helicopters. In response to the events, access to the National Assembly premises has been restricted for Ministry of Defense employees and police.
Kim emphasized the need to evaluate the physical damage and losses resulting from the martial law declaration. Those found responsible for any illegal actions will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
It is noteworthy that lawmakers intervened by forcing their way into parliament to vote against the martial law decree, prompting President Yoon to revoke the declaration. Clashes between members of parliament and soldiers were reported outside the National Assembly, where crowds also gathered in protest.
