Janice R. Andrews
In an unprecedented move, South Korea’s emergency martial law was quickly dismantled after just a few hours, following a decisive parliamentary vote. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial declaration, implemented late Tuesday night, was repealed by 4:30 AM Wednesday, marking the first martial law in over 40 years.
Responding to the parliamentary mandate, Yoon ordered the withdrawal of military forces, though he criticized lawmakers for allegedly obstructing governance through strategic political maneuvers. The martial law, which would typically grant extensive military control during extraordinary circumstances, was met with immediate resistance from opposition lawmakers and public protesters.
The National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik led the charge against the martial law, emphasizing the need to protect democratic principles. In a dramatic parliamentary session, 190 lawmakers voted to rescind the order, effectively neutralizing Yoon’s emergency measure.
Yoon had initially justified the martial law by citing potential threats from North Korea and what he described as “anti-state elements” within the opposition-controlled National Assembly. However, his action was widely perceived as an overreach, with opponents labeling it unconstitutional.
The scenes inside and outside the parliament were charged with tension. Lawmakers physically blocked military troops from entering the chamber, even using fire extinguishers as a deterrent. Simultaneously, hundreds of protesters gathered, demanding Yoon’s impeachment and expressing fear of returning to an authoritarian era.
Despite the dramatic events, the swift resolution and peaceful military withdrawal demonstrated the underlying strength of South Korea’s democratic institutions. The incident has nonetheless exposed significant political tensions between the presidency and the opposition-dominated legislature.
One protester’s sentiment captured the broader public mood: “President Yoon should not act unilaterally.” The event serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance of power in democratic governance.
