South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced that he will lift the martial law he had imposed, following a vote by parliament that blocked the controversial move. The decision to declare military rule came suddenly, sparking a political crisis in the country. Yoon’s late-night declaration of martial law sent shockwaves through the nation, leading to immediate opposition from lawmakers.
Less than two hours after the president’s declaration, members of parliament (MPs) swiftly gathered at the National Assembly, where they voted to reject the imposition of martial law. In a dramatic turn of events, some MPs broke through barricades or scaled fences to enter the assembly building, while outside, scuffles erupted between protesters and the police. The protests highlighted the deep unrest surrounding the president’s move.
The United States has expressed its concern over the unfolding events. The U.S. State Department has been closely monitoring the situation, with President Biden, currently on a foreign trip, receiving regular updates. The international community is watching with unease as South Korea grapples with the political tensions caused by this crisis.
Locally, President Yoon’s actions have drawn criticism, and his leadership is increasingly seen as controversial. With a lame-duck presidency following the recent general election, Yoon’s authority has been further challenged, deepening the political instability in South Korea.
