SEOUL, December 3 (AJP) - In a late-night televised address on Tuesday, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law, citing the need to eradicate "pro-North Korean forces and their anti-government activities" to protect South Korea's constitutional order.
“This measure was unavoidable to ensure the safety and freedom of the people and to protect the country,” Yoon said from the presidential office. He emphasized that his administration would focus on eliminating what he described as "the root causes of attempts to throw the country into crisis." Aware of potential public concerns, Yoon pledged to minimize disruptions caused by the declaration.
Yoon’s sudden announcement came shortly after the National Assembly submitted impeachment motions against a state auditor and the chief prosecutor. He accused the opposition Democratic Party (DP) of using budget bills and impeachment motions as political tools to shield DP leader Lee Jae-myung from prosecution.
The situation at the National Assembly escalated in the early hours of December 4. At approximately 12:31 a.m., soldiers blocked lawmakers, citizens, and media from entering the building. DP leader Lee Jae-myung and other DP lawmakers arrived at the scene, with Lee urging the public to gather at the parliament.
“The time has come for the people to protect their democracy,” Lee said, condemning the martial law declaration as "illegal and unconstitutional." He called on South Koreans to unite in opposition to what he described as an assault on democratic freedoms.
The military’s blockade has heightened concerns about potential arrests of opposition lawmakers and raised questions about the broader implications for South Korea’s democratic processes. Protesters attempting to approach the National Assembly clashed with police, adding to the volatile atmosphere.
As the standoff continues, opposition leaders are rallying support against the martial law measures. Meanwhile, the government insists the actions are necessary to maintain national security. The nation now faces one of its most severe political crises in recent history, with deep divisions threatening to reshape South Korea’s political landscape.
At about 12:41 a.m., soldiers broke the windows of the National Assembly to breach the building.
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon expressed opposition to Yoon's declaration of martial law through a statement released at about 12:25 a.m. on Wednesday: I oppose martial law. It must be withdrawn," he said.
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