Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared emergency martial law, accusing the opposition of engaging in activities that threaten the government with "anti-state activities plotting rebellion." The announcement, made during a live emergency national address, marks the first imposition of martial law in South Korea since 1979.According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision follows the opposition Democratic Party's (DP) efforts to push through a downsized budget bill in the parliamentary budget committee and their submission of impeachment motions against a state auditor and the chief prosecutor. President Yoon stated that the martial law aims to eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional order of freedom.President Yoon elaborated that the emergency measure is crucial for "rebuilding and safeguarding" the nation amidst significant challenges. Although he acknowledged potential inconveniences to citizens, he assured that the government remains committed to swiftly normalizing the situati on while maintaining its foreign policy responsibilities.Yoon emphasized the unprecedented nature of the political situation, highlighting that 22 impeachment motions have been filed against government officials since his inauguration in May 2022. The opposition's actions, he argued, have severely hampered the executive branch's functionality, particularly with their 10th impeachment effort since the 22nd National Assembly convened in June.The president expressed concerns over the downsized budget bill, warning that reductions could undermine essential government functions, such as drug crime prevention and public safety, potentially turning the country into a "haven for drugs" and compromising public safety.Furthermore, Yoon accused the DP of utilizing budget bills and impeachment motions as political tools to protect DP leader Lee Jae-myung from prosecution amidst ongoing trials. He claimed that the National Assembly has become a refuge for criminals, disrupting the judicial and administrative systems and threatening the democratic system through legislative overreach.Under the Korean Constitution, the president can declare martial law in response to military needs during war, armed conflict, national emergencies, or when public safety and order require it. Following Yoon's address, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, appointed as the leader of the martial law command, issued a decree banning all political activities, including protests and activities by political parties.The DP, holding 170 seats in the 300-member parliament, has the power to revoke martial law with a majority vote and has urgently convened its lawmakers in response. Meanwhile, Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling People Power Party, criticized the martial law declaration as "wrong" and vowed to oppose it alongside the people.
- September 13, 2026
