In a swift response to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law, South Korea’s parliament voted to overturn the decision, reaffirming its commitment to democracy.
National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik called on lawmakers to “protect democracy with the people” and demanded the immediate withdrawal of police and military forces from the Assembly premises. Following the vote, all 190 participating lawmakers supported the repeal, leading to the removal of soldiers and police from the parliamentary grounds.
President Yoon had earlier imposed martial law, citing the need to eliminate “anti-state” elements and accusing the opposition-controlled parliament of sympathizing with North Korea. His move was met with widespread criticism, including from opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who denounced it as “illegal and unconstitutional,” and Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s People Power Party, who called it “wrong.”
During his televised address, Yoon defended his decision, claiming martial law was necessary to “rebuild and protect” the nation from “falling into the depths of national ruin.” He vowed to eradicate pro-North Korean forces and urged the public to endure “some inconveniences” for the sake of national stability.
In the hours following the declaration, military forces suspended parliamentary operations and banned political gatherings deemed to cause “social confusion.” Striking doctors were also ordered to resume work within 48 hours, with threats of arrest for non-compliance. The doctors have been protesting for months over plans to increase medical school enrollments.
Under South Korean law, martial law can be lifted by a majority vote in parliament, where the opposition Democratic Party holds the majority. The swift revocation highlights the strength of democratic processes in the country, even amidst political tensions.
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