South Korea ends martial law after swift legislative vote

South Korea’s National Assembly voted 190 to 0 early Wednesday to end martial law, which had been declared just hours earlier by President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Yoon accused opposition parties of threatening the constitutional order, citing a rejected budget proposal and impeachment cases as reasons for his declaration. He stated that martial law aimed to eradicate pro-North Korean influences.

The immediate aftermath of the declaration saw lawmakers facing challenges to access the National Assembly, with armed guards in place.

The declaration restricted political activities and media control while demanding medical personnel return to work.

Lawmakers from both major parties, including Yoon’s People Power Party, opposed the martial law. The opposition Democratic Party, holding majority control, quickly called for an emergency meeting.

Yoon’s decision

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party, criticised Yoon’s decision, arguing that it lacked justification and risked military control over democracy. He urged citizens to rally in support of democratic processes.

As martial law took effect, financial markets reacted, leading to a decline in the South Korean won. Yoon’s approval ratings have significantly dropped amid political turmoil, with perceived failures to govern effectively.

Responses to the martial law declaration included backlash from within Yoon’s own party and concerns over democracy’s health in South Korea.

Analysts suggest Yoon must clarify his actions to avoid a perception of using martial law for domestic political disputes.