A tense political standoff unfolds in South Korea as troops and helicopters surround the National Assembly building in an unprecedented display of military force.
According to CBS News, President Yoon Suk Yeol's government lifted the martial law early Wednesday following a bipartisan parliamentary vote that rejected the military rule, ending a dramatic six-hour period that sparked nationwide protests and international concern.
The crisis began when Yoon declared martial law late Tuesday, citing the need to eliminate "anti-state" forces and protect the constitutional democratic order. His decision came amid growing frustration with the opposition-controlled parliament, which he accused of sympathizing with North Korea and engaging in legislative manipulation.
Soldiers carrying rifles positioned themselves at the National Assembly entrance while military helicopters landed within the grounds. Police officers blocked access to the building, creating a tense atmosphere as protesters gathered outside. The military announced the suspension of political gatherings and ordered striking doctors to return to work within 48 hours.
The liberal opposition Democratic Party, which holds a majority in the 300-seat parliament, swiftly organized an emergency vote. All 190 lawmakers present voted unanimously to lift the martial law declaration, demonstrating a strong bipartisan rejection of military rule. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung expressed his commitment to protecting democracy. He stated:
Democratic Party lawmakers, including me and many others, will protect our country's democracy and future and public safety, lives and properties, with our own lives.
The Biden administration expressed serious concern about the developments, maintaining close contact with South Korean officials. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell addressed the situation, emphasizing American expectations for peaceful resolution through legal means.
The declaration's impact extended beyond politics, affecting daily life in Seoul. Despite the military presence, the capital maintained a semblance of normalcy, with tourists and residents going about their routines amid the heightened security measures.
President Yoon's decision faced criticism from both opposition and members of his own conservative party. Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon's People Power Party, openly opposed the martial law declaration, calling it "wrong" and pledging to work with citizens to stop it.
The Democratic Party stated:
President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration was a clear violation of the constitution. It didn't abide by any requirements to declare it. His martial law declaration was originally invalid and a grave violation of the constitution. It was a grave act of rebellion and provides perfect grounds for his impeachment.
South Korea has not witnessed martial law since its democratization in 1987, making Yoon's declaration particularly significant. The president's approval ratings have declined in recent months as he struggled to advance his agenda against the opposition-controlled parliament.
The aftermath of the martial law declaration has led to calls for Yoon's resignation or impeachment. Senior presidential advisers and secretaries have offered collective resignations, while Yoon postponed his official Wednesday schedule.
The opposition party now requires support from two-thirds of parliament, or 200 members, to successfully impeach the president. Currently, the Democratic Party and smaller opposition parties control 192 seats.
President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief implementation of martial law in South Korea triggered a constitutional crisis that highlighted the tension between executive power and democratic institutions. The six-hour military rule, which began late Tuesday and ended early Wednesday, resulted in widespread protests and a unified parliamentary response rejecting the president's declaration. This political crisis represents the most significant challenge to South Korean democracy since the country's democratization in 1987.
