President Yoon Lifts Martial Law After Unanimous Parliament Vote in South Korea

Dec 3, 2024, 07:44 PM

In a late-night announcement on Tuesday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law to combat "anti-state forces." The democratic-led parliament swiftly convened and, with 190 of its 300 members present, unanimously voted on Wednesday to lift the short-lived martial law declaration. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik declared that lawmakers "will protect democracy with the people." Initially resistant, President Yoon announced after a Cabinet meeting that he would honor the legislature's decision and lift the martial law. The rapid reversal underscores tensions between the executive and legislative branches over emergency powers in the democratic nation.