South Korea experienced a whirlwind political crisis on Tuesday night as President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, only to have it overturned by the National Assembly hours later amid nationwide protests and international condemnation. This marked the first imposition of martial law in South Korea since 1980, a decision that drew sharp criticism for its perceived threat to democracy.

Timeline of Events

Martial Law Declared

In a surprise late-night address, President Yoon announced the imposition of martial law, citing the need to defend South Korea’s constitutional order against “anti-state” and “pro-North Korean forces.” The decree gave sweeping powers to the military, suspending political activities, enabling warrantless arrests, and restricting dissent, including bans on “fake news” and “manipulating public opinion.”

Public Outrage and Protests

The announcement sparked immediate protests outside the National Assembly in Seoul. Demonstrators clashed with security forces, chanting slogans such as “Withdraw martial law!” and “Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol.” Videos shared on social media showed soldiers entering the Parliament building, some smashing windows, and armed personnel securing the premises.

National Assembly Overturns Martial Law

In an emergency late-night session, 190 out of 300 lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties voted unanimously to invalidate the martial law decree. The National Assembly Speaker declared the law null and void, prompting the withdrawal of military forces from the Parliament grounds.

Martial Law Lifted

President Yoon officially lifted martial law following the Assembly’s decision, saying he respected the democratic process. Protesters outside Parliament erupted in celebration, chanting “We won!” and applauding the swift response by lawmakers.

Reactions and Fallout

Domestic Criticism: Opposition leaders accused President Yoon of orchestrating a “political coup” and violating the Constitution. Former Foreign Minister Kyung-wha Kang called the move “shocking,” adding that it lacked justification and further weakened the president’s authority.

International Concern: US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell expressed “grave concern” over the developments, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and upholding democratic norms.

Economic Impact: The Korean won saw a sharp decline against the US dollar following the declaration, reflecting market instability caused by the political upheaval.

The declaration of martial law highlighted the political challenges faced by President Yoon since taking office in 2022. His conservative People Power Party (PPP) has struggled to pass legislation in a parliament controlled by the liberal Democratic Party, including disputes over the upcoming budget bill.

Yoon’s justification for martial law—eliminating North Korean threats and pro-communist forces—failed to resonate with lawmakers or the public. Instead, it sparked fears of authoritarianism, with comparisons drawn to South Korea’s pre-democratic era.

Martial law grants the military temporary authority to enforce laws during times of war, rebellion, or emergencies, often suspending civil liberties and normal governance. While rare in democracies, it can be invoked when civilian authorities are deemed incapable of maintaining order.

President Yoon’s declaration was the first since South Korea’s democratization in 1987 and was widely criticized as unnecessary and undemocratic.

The rapid reversal of martial law underscores the strength of South Korea’s democratic institutions and public resistance to authoritarian measures. However, the episode has left lasting political and economic scars, raising questions about the president’s leadership and the nation’s political stability moving forward.