South Korea in Turmoil as President Yoon Declares Martial Law to Counter ‘Anti-State’ Threats

 South Korea plunged into political and social upheaval on Tuesday evening after President Yoon Suk Yeol announced the imposition of martial law, citing the need to neutralize "anti-state" forces allegedly aligned with communist North Korea. Yoon accused the opposition-controlled Parliament of collusion and declared his intent to protect the nation’s constitutional order.

The announcement triggered widespread unrest, with thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets of Seoul. Protesters attempted to storm the National Assembly, resulting in violent clashes with security forces. Armored vehicles, tanks, and heavily armed troops were deployed to secure the assembly grounds.

Unprecedented Military Presence at the National Assembly

Images circulating online showed heavily armed soldiers and riot police stationed at the assembly’s entrance to prevent unauthorized access. Eyewitnesses reported military helicopters landing within the assembly compound, with additional aircraft hovering above.

According to reports, access to the National Assembly has been fully restricted. The opposition-controlled Parliament was rendered ineffective, as lawmakers were prevented from entering the premises. A leader of a minor opposition party confirmed that insufficient lawmakers were present to challenge the martial law declaration.

Rising Tensions on the Streets

The streets of Seoul became the epicenter of dissent, with protesters chanting slogans such as “Withdraw emergency martial law” and “Step outside!” Despite the growing unrest, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities thus far.

Amid escalating tensions, South Korea’s military has raised its alert level, citing the ongoing threat posed by nuclear-armed North Korea. The military has suspended all political gatherings deemed capable of inciting “social confusion.”

Uncertainty Surrounding Martial Law Duration

The duration of the emergency remains unclear. Under South Korean law, martial law can only be rescinded through a majority vote in the 300-member National Assembly. However, the opposition Democratic Party’s parliamentary majority sets the stage for a contentious political showdown.

President Yoon’s Justification in Televised Address

In a televised address to the nation, President Yoon defended his decision as a necessary measure to “rebuild and protect” South Korea. He vowed to eradicate “anti-state forces” and reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the country’s democratic institutions.

“To defend a liberal South Korea against threats from North Korea’s communist regime and to eliminate anti-state elements undermining public freedom and happiness, I hereby declare emergency martial law,” Yoon stated. He accused the opposition of obstructing governance and prioritizing political maneuvers over national welfare.

President Yoon urged the public to trust his leadership, emphasizing that the sacrifices required under martial law were essential to ensure the nation’s long-term stability. However, with South Korea deeply polarized, the days ahead are likely to be critical for the nation’s political and social future.