Seoul, South Korea (Agencies): South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has imposed emergency martial law, accusing the opposition Democratic Party of engaging in “anti-state activities” and plotting a rebellion. In a televised address on Tuesday, Yoon claimed that the opposition, which holds a majority in parliament, was paralyzing the government with its actions.
“The martial law is aimed at eradicating pro-North Korean forces and protecting the constitutional order of freedom,” Yoon stated, as quoted by Yonhap news agency. The Defense Ministry has summoned senior military commanders for a meeting, putting the army on full alert. Additionally, the military has announced a suspension of all parliamentary activity, with members of the National Assembly banned from entering the building.
Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung has denounced Yoon’s decision as “unconstitutional.” The president’s approval ratings have been dipping in recent months, with the parliamentary opposition repeatedly derailing his agenda since he came to power in 2022. The confrontation escalated last week when the Democratic Party shot down Yoon’s 2025 budget bill.
Yoon has also been resisting calls for a probe into several scandals involving his wife and senior officials. The Democratic Party opposes the ruling People Power Party’s plans, insisting on an increased budget to “revive people’s livelihoods and the economy.” The opposition has also submitted impeachment motions against a state auditor and the chief prosecutor.