3-12-2024 (SEOUL) President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced what he termed “emergency martial law” measures, citing alleged anti-state activities by the opposition-controlled parliament.
During a dramatic televised address to the nation on Tuesday, President Yoon accused the opposition of effectively paralysing governmental functions and maintaining sympathetic ties with North Korea. The president characterised the declaration as a necessary step to protect the country’s constitutional order, though the precise implications for South Korea’s democratic institutions remain unclear.
The announcement marks a significant escalation in the ongoing power struggle between Yoon’s administration and the opposition-controlled National Assembly. Since assuming office in 2022, President Yoon has faced considerable challenges in implementing his political agenda due to the opposition’s parliamentary majority.
