South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s surprise declaration of martial law, aimed at quelling political opposition, was swiftly overturned after protests and a parliamentary vote, raising serious questions about the nation’s democratic future
In a shocking turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law on Tuesday night, marking the first time in nearly 50 years that the military was temporarily placed in control of the nation. The unprecedented move—announced during a late-night televised address—sent shockwaves through the country, raising questions about the state of its democracy and the motivations behind Yoon’s drastic decision.
While martial law is typically reserved for extreme national emergencies, Yoon cited “anti-state forces” and North Korea’s threats as justification. However, it quickly became apparent that the declaration was more about internal political struggles than external dangers.
The president had to lift the martial law order, just hours after his decree plunged the country into political uncertainty and sparked fierce backlash from lawmakers across the political spectrum.
The Details of Martial Law and Public Reaction
Martial law temporarily places a nation under military rule, overriding civil authorities and often curtailing citizens’ rights. In this case, Yoon’s decree banned protests, restricted media operations, and put the military in charge of the National Assembly. By 11 PM on Tuesday, military troops in full gear were seen occupying parliament, as helicopters hovered above.
South Korea, which transitioned to a parliamentary democracy in 1987, had not experienced martial law since 1979, during the authoritarian rule of Park Chung-hee. For many, the sudden return of such measures seemed anachronistic, a step backward for a nation now renowned for its vibrant democratic culture. Within hours, thousands of protesters gathered outside parliament, chanting “No martial law!” and “Strike down dictatorship!” Some lawmakers even scaled fences to reach the assembly chambers, where they swiftly convened an emergency session.
South Korea’s President Yoon declared emergency martial law which was later discarded
By 1 AM Wednesday, South Korea’s parliament—where 190 out of 300 members were present—voted overwhelmingly to invalidate Yoon’s declaration. This quick response underscores the strength of the country’s democratic institutions, which remain resilient despite the political turbulence.
A Political Miscalculation?
Yoon’s presidency, which began in May 2022, has been fraught with challenges. His approval ratings have plummeted to an all-time low of 17%, driven by corruption scandals involving his administration, including accusations against the First Lady for receiving lavish gifts. Adding to his woes, the liberal Democratic Party, led by opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, won a landslide victory in the April general election, leaving Yoon politically weakened. Since then, his government has struggled to pass significant legislation, instead focusing on vetoing bills from the opposition-controlled parliament.
This week’s events further escalated tensions. The opposition proposed cutting the government’s budget, which Yoon cannot veto, while simultaneously moving to impeach key officials, including prosecutors accused of shielding the First Lady from investigations. Facing mounting pressure and calls for impeachment, Yoon’s declaration of martial law seemed to many as a desperate bid to consolidate power.
“Yoon’s declaration appeared to be both legal overreach and a political miscalculation, unnecessarily risking South Korea’s economy and security,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.
South Korean protesters hold a banner that reads “we condemn Yoon Suk Yeol’s illegal martial law” during a rally against President Yoon Suk Yeol at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on December 4/ AFP.
The Cost of Martial Law
The economic and reputational consequences of Yoon’s actions could be severe. South Korea, a global economic powerhouse with a GDP of $2.1 trillion in 2023, relies heavily on its democratic stability to attract foreign investment. Tuesday’s events risk undermining the country’s image as a thriving democracy, comparable to the January 6 riots in the United States.
The immediate impact on public trust and investor confidence remains to be seen, but experts predict further destabilization. Political instability could affect South Korea’s export-driven economy, particularly its flagship industries like semiconductors and automotive manufacturing, which contributed over $150 billion in exports last year.
Police struggle with people trying to enter the National Assembly in front of the main gate of the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on December 3, 2024/ AFP.
What’s Next for South Korea?
Yoon’s declaration, which lasted just over six hours, has left the nation grappling with uncertainty. Protesters have called for his resignation, and some have even demanded his arrest. Legal experts argue that Yoon may have violated constitutional norms, further intensifying calls for his impeachment.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has emerged as a central figure in the resistance, rallying both lawmakers and citizens. “Tanks, soldiers, and guns should never rule this country again,” he said, urging South Koreans to protect their hard-won democracy.
Parliament speaker Kim Jin-pyo also weighed in: “We will protect democracy together with the people.” This sentiment highlights the collective resolve to prevent a repeat of South Korea’s authoritarian past.
A Warning for Leaders in Crisis
Yoon’s declaration of martial law has been widely criticized as an act of desperation, reflecting the pressures facing a leader with diminishing public support and limited political leverage. While he aimed to portray himself as a protector of the nation, his actions have only intensified scrutiny of his leadership and decisions.
For a country that prides itself on its democratic progress, Yoon’s misstep serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of democracy in times of political turmoil. As one protester outside parliament said, “We have come too far to let one person take us back.”
South Korea now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust in its political system while addressing the deep divisions that led to this crisis. Whether Yoon can navigate the aftermath of this controversy remains uncertain, but the nation’s democratic institutions have proven their resilience once again.
