What's happened
In a shocking move, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law on December 3, 2024, citing threats from anti-state forces. The declaration was swiftly rescinded by parliament, leading to protests and calls for Yoon's impeachment. This unprecedented event has raised concerns about the state of democracy in South Korea.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, President Yoon's martial law declaration was met with immediate backlash, with lawmakers stating it was 'unconstitutional' and a 'failed coup.' The Independent reported that the swift parliamentary vote to lift martial law demonstrated a strong commitment to democracy, with National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik declaring the order 'invalid.' Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post highlighted the chaotic scenes as troops attempted to assert control over the National Assembly, only to be met with fierce protests. This sentiment was echoed by Business Insider, which noted that Yoon's actions have led to calls for his resignation from both opposition parties and members of his own party, indicating a significant loss of political support.
How we got here
President Yoon's declaration of martial law marked the first such action in South Korea since the 1980s. His government has faced significant opposition from the Democratic Party, which holds a parliamentary majority, leading to a political standoff and accusations of incompetence and corruption against Yoon.
Common question
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Why was martial law declared in South Korea?
On December 3, 2024, South Korea experienced a shocking political upheaval when President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, citing threats from anti-state forces. This unprecedented move has sparked widespread protests and raised critical questions about the future of democracy in the country. Below, we explore the implications of this declaration and the public's response.
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