South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Declares “Emergency Martial Law”
An “emergency martial law” has been announced in South Korea.
On Tuesday, December 3, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared an “emergency martial law” via a televised briefing, promising to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order.” He accused the opposition of “controlling the parliament,” “sympathizing” with North Korea, and immobilizing the government through anti-state actions.
President Yoon’s approval rating plunged recently. Since assuming office in 2022, he has struggled to advance his agenda in the face of an opposition-controlled parliament. His conservative People Power Party has been at a standstill with the liberal opposition Democratic Party over 2025’s budget bill. Additionally, President Yoon has constantly rejected calls for independent investigations into scandals concerning his wife and senior officials, causing harsh criticism from his opponents.
Reportedly, the Democratic Party has called an emergency meeting of its lawmakers following Yoon’s announcement. Additionally, a majority of assembly votes will be needed to lift the martial law. Since the Democratic Party controls 170 seats of 300, it’s probable it will be lifted soon.
The National Assembly voted unanimously to block the martial law. Read below.
South Korean National Assembly Votes To Block President’s “Emergency Martial Law”
