Silke Mayr South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol rescinded his martial law order early Wednesday after massive protests and political opposition. Hours earlier, Yoon’s sudden decree had triggered widespread backlash, leading to fierce protests in Seoul and a parliamentary motion demanding its reversal.
Parliamentary staff used fire extinguishers to block armed forces attempting to breach the National Assembly. Opposition leaders condemned the move as unconstitutional and vowed to resist. Yoon’s ruling party urged him to backtrack, citing the parliamentary vote. By 4:30 a.m. local time Wednesday, the Cabinet approved a motion to lift martial law, according to Yonhap news agency.
The White House expressed concern, with a spokesperson affirming the U.S.-ROK alliance’s foundation in democracy. President Biden was briefed on the situation, though the U.S. had no prior notice of Yoon’s declaration.
Political Turmoil and Public Backlash
Yoon declared martial law in a late-night address, citing the need to combat North Korean threats and pro-communist forces. This marked the first such declaration in over 40 years, evoking memories of South Korea’s authoritarian past under former dictator Chun Doo-Hwan.
The opposition Democratic Party, which holds a parliamentary majority, criticized the move. Party leader Lee Jae-myung warned of catastrophic economic consequences and urged citizens to defend democracy. Protesters clashed with troops blocking the National Assembly entrance, with fire extinguishers used to repel them.
Political analysts linked the declaration to Yoon’s plummeting popularity and conflicts with the opposition over a failed budget proposal. Critics accused Yoon of using martial law to regain political control, sparking calls for his impeachment. Opposition lawmakers prepared an impeachment motion, while South Korea’s largest union coalition announced strikes and planned protests.
Historical Resonance and International Implications
South Korea’s traumatic history with martial law heightened public outrage. The opposition aimed to tarnish Yoon’s democratic credentials, framing his actions as a betrayal of the country’s democratic progress.
South Korea remains a vital U.S. ally, hosting about 28,000 U.S. troops as a deterrent against North Korea. Analysts believe the declaration is unlikely to impact U.S.-South Korea military ties, given the enduring strength of their mutual defense agreements.
The controversy has cast a shadow over Yoon’s presidency, with his chief of staff and senior aides offering their resignations. The political crisis underscores deep divisions in South Korean politics and the enduring legacy of its authoritarian past.