Official announcements from the South Korean government and international news agencies

South Korea's President Yoon Declares Martial Law to Counter North Korean Threats, Accuses Opposition Party

Dec 3, 2024, 02:03 PM

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law on December 3 in an unannounced late-night televised address, citing the need to protect the country from North Korea's communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements. Accusing the opposition Democratic Party of anti-state activities and sympathizing with North Korea, President Yoon stated that government administration has been paralyzed due to the opposition's conduct, including impeachment attempts against him. The martial law grants the military authority to maintain public order and unlimited power in making and enforcing laws to uphold the constitutional order. Following the declaration, the Defense Minister ordered a meeting with the military's top commanders. This unprecedented move aims to rebuild a free and democratic country amid political turmoil.