Official records from the South Korean National Assembly

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol Declares Martial Law on December 3, 2024, First Since 1987 Amid Political Turmoil

Jan 13, 2025, 04:15 AM

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on December 3, 2024, marking the first such declaration since 1987. The move, which was justified by Yoon as a response to threats from North Korea and domestic unrest, led to a chaotic standoff at the National Assembly, where opposition lawmakers rejected the declaration. Investigations into the martial law have revealed troubling links between former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, the military, and alleged attempts to influence presidential election outcomes. Following a failed impeachment motion against him, President Yoon faces increasing scrutiny over his decision, as allegations of corruption against the First Lady further complicate his presidency. The aftermath of the brief martial law has ignited intense debate regarding the concentration of presidential power and the involvement of military and intelligence agencies in politics, with expectations of closer oversight and continued political turmoil in South Korea.