South Korean President Lifts Martial Law Hours After Declaration
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol announced the lifting of martial law just hours after its imposition. In a televised address, the president stated that martial law was declared due to “anti-state activities” by the opposition, urging the National Assembly to cease such actions.
Following the South Korean president’s decision, an emergency session of parliament convened, where martial law and the state of emergency were annulled. The imposition faced widespread backlash across the country, including strong opposition from members of parliament. A resolution condemning martial law was passed in the 300-member assembly, with 190 lawmakers voting in favor.
Public outrage also erupted, with citizens taking to the streets in protest. Security forces, including police and special military units, blocked access to the parliament building, attempting to prevent lawmakers from entering. However, the legislators broke through the security barricades and convened inside the parliament.
Following the president’s announcement to lift martial law, opposition parties celebrated, and military personnel began returning to their barracks.
According to news agencies, demands for the president’s impeachment are gaining momentum. For an impeachment motion to pass, it requires a two-thirds majority in the 300-seat National Assembly. If approved, the prime minister would assume the role of acting president while the Constitutional Court delivers a final verdict on the impeachment.
