South Korea recently experienced a tumultuous six-hour period marked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law, which was subsequently revoked following widespread backlash. Martial law, a measure that temporarily places the military in charge during emergencies, can be declared by the president as per the constitution.
Yoon's decree under martial law imposed a ban on all political activities, including protests, rallies, and actions by political parties, as reported by the Korean News Agency. Additionally, it prohibited activities such as 'denying free democracy or attempting a subversion' and 'manipulating public opinion.' The decree also mandated that doctors participating in a walkout return to work within 48 hours, with violators facing the risk of arrest or raids without the need for a warrant.
However, the martial law decree, issued around 10:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, was short-lived. Lawmakers swiftly gathered at the parliament, overcoming the soldiers deployed to block access to the building. In an emergency late-night session, a unanimous vote was cast to reject the decree, a decision that the president is legally obligated to honor.
By 4:30 a.m., President Yoon announced his compliance with the lawmakers' decision and lifted the martial law order, confirming the withdrawal of troops deployed earlier in the night. Subsequently, Yoon's cabinet voted to formally lift the decree, bringing an end to the brief period of martial law in South Korea.
