South Korean President declares Martial Law amid political crisis

South Korea.- On Tuesday, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, citing the need to protect the country’s constitutional order. The decision follows actions by the opposition-controlled Parliament, which passed a 2025 budget with significant cuts and approved motions to dismiss key government officials. Yoon’s People’s Power Party opposed these measures, which he claims show Parliament’s alleged alignment with North Korea.

Martial law, which transfers control to the military and suspends civil rights, has effectively closed Parliament, banned political activities, and placed the media under strict government control. Park An-su, the commander overseeing its enforcement, announced that all political functions and demonstrations are prohibited. The move underscores escalating tensions between Yoon’s administration and opposition forces, sparking concerns over South Korea’s democratic stability.

Martial law declarations have been used in other global crises. In October 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin imposed martial law in parts of Ukraine, restricting freedoms, imposing curfews, and enforcing military censorship. Yoon’s drastic measure signals a severe response to political discord, marking a critical moment in South Korean governance.