South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on 4th December, accusing the opposition of threatening the country’s democracy and national stability.
Key points
The announcement triggered alarm both domestically and internationally as troops surrounded Parliament there.
Within hours of imposing martial law, Yoon reversed the decision following a strong rebuke from the National Assembly and widespread protests. However, South Korea lawmakers have called for President Yoon Suk Seol to step down or face impeachment.
The President accused the opposition of sympathising with North Korea and paralysing the government with anti-state activities.
Since the establishment of the Republic of Korea, martial law has been declared 16 times. It was last declared in 1980.
The martial law is the replacement of civilian government by military rule, and the suspension of civilian legal processes for military ones. Standard civil liberties may be suspended for as long as martial law continues.
Article 77 of the Republic of Korea’s constitution contains provisions pertaining to the declaration of martial law in the country.
When martial law is in effect, “special measures” can be employed to restrict freedom of press, freedom of assembly and other rights, as well as the power of courts.
The constitution also states that the president must oblige when the National Assembly demands the lifting of martial law with a majority vote.
