"We respect the wishes of the soldiers deployed under martial law by providing a support system for psychological assessments and counseling. For those undergoing counseling, we are paying close attention and providing continuous support," the ministry said.
President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law at 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 3, citing threats to national security. Shortly afterward, some 1,500 soldiers equipped with battle dress uniforms (BDUs), night vision goggles, and special warfare gear were mobilized.
Of these, about 280 soldiers were airdropped via Blackhawk helicopters into the National Assembly in southwestern Seoul, while nearly 300 soldiers stormed the National Election Committee building in southern Seoul. Soldiers reportedly subdued five workers, confiscating their phones before taking control of the facility.
Martial forces also secured provincial offices and other government buildings. Their occupation continued until 1:30 a.m. on Dec. 4, when 190 lawmakers unanimously passed a resolution to lift martial law.
News footage from the night showed some soldiers apologizing to citizens and reporters as they withdrew to helicopters and military buses.
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