Martial law in South Korea: President Yoon triggers crisis!

Martial law in South Korea: President Yoon triggers crisis!

South Korea is in a deep political crisis: President Yoon Suk-yeol has unexpectedly declared martial law to combat the alleged threat from North Korean forces and combat what he describes as “anti-state” elements. In a televised speech late Tuesday evening, Yoon said government work was paralyzed due to the "violations" of the opposition, which he accused of being North Korea's stooges. According to media reports, Parliament was placed under lockdown and all political activities were banned, drawing the displeasure of many citizens and the concern of international observers, such as orf.at reported.

Conflict between government and opposition escalates

The opposition, led by the Democratic Party (DP), criticized Yoon's decision as unconstitutional and quickly introduced a bill to lift martial law in parliament. Yoon's rival party recently took control of the 2025 budget proposal, sparking a dispute between political camps. The speaker of the parliament described Yoon's measures as invalid. Amid protests outside parliament and a tense atmosphere in which soldiers attempted to enter the building, reports of chants of "Arrest Yoon Suk-yeol" and "Withdraw martial law" followed vol.at.

The situation is also affecting the country's economic stability, as the South Korean won is losing value sharply due to political uncertainty. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has called an emergency meeting to discuss possible measures to stabilize the market. The US is concerned about the developments, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kurt Campbell urging peaceful solutions in accordance with the rule of law. The U.S. military presence in South Korea, with 28,500 troops, remains essential to regional security, especially given the ongoing threat from North Korea.