Mass Protests Erupt Outside South Korea's Parliament After President Declares Martial Law

 

South Korean President Declares Martial Law Amid Rising Tensions

SEOUL — For the first time since 1980, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, citing the need to safeguard liberal democracy from what he described as "anti-state forces."

The decree, effective from 11 p.m. on December 3, 2024, states:
"In order to protect liberal democracy from the threat of overthrowing the regime of the Republic of Korea by anti-state forces active within the Republic of Korea and to protect the safety of the people, the following is hereby declared throughout the Republic of Korea."

The declaration has sparked mass protests outside the National Assembly in Seoul, where demonstrators are voicing concerns over potential threats to civil liberties. Police officers were stationed at the gates of the National Assembly as tensions escalated.

The move comes amidst a backdrop of political unrest, with critics accusing the government of overreach and authoritarianism. Opposition leaders and civil society groups have called for an immediate reversal of the decree, warning that it undermines democratic principles.

This marks the first instance of martial law since the military-backed government of Chun Doo-hwan invoked it during the Gwangju Uprising in 1980, a period remembered for severe crackdowns on pro-democracy movements.

As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring developments in South Korea, a key regional democracy and economic power.

Here’s a point-by-point breakdown of the martial law decree:

1. Suspension of Political Activities

   • What is prohibited?
     All political activities, including those by the National Assembly, local councils, political parties, and political associations. Public rallies and demonstrations of any kind are also banned.

2. Prohibition of Subversive Acts and Disinformation

   • What is prohibited?
     Actions that deny or attempt to overthrow South Korea's liberal democratic system.
     The spread of fake news, manipulation of public opinion, and false propaganda.

3. Control of Media and Publications

   • What is enforced?
     All forms of media and publications, such as news outlets, magazines, and online content, will be under the control and oversight of the Martial Law Command.

4. Ban on Strikes and Disruptive Gatherings

   • What is prohibited?
     Strikes, work stoppages, and any rallies or gatherings that could incite social instability or chaos.

5. Mandatory Return of Medical Personnel

   • Who is affected?
     Medical personnel, including trainee doctors, who are on strike or have left their duties.
   • What is required?
     They must return to work within 48 hours and perform their duties diligently.
   • What happens if they refuse?
     Violators will face punishment under the Martial Law provisions.

6. Protection of Ordinary Citizens

   • Who is excluded from strict enforcement?
     Ordinary citizens who are not involved in anti-state or subversive activities.
   • What is promised?
     Measures will be taken to minimize disruptions to the daily lives of law-abiding citizens.