South Korean President retreats from martial law after massive pushback

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has rescinded his declaration of martial law, a decision that came after fierce opposition from lawmakers and widespread public protests. This abrupt reversal, announced on December 4, 2024, marked a dramatic end to a South Korea crisis that gripped the nation overnight.

In a televised address early Wednesday morning, President Yoon stated that the military forces deployed for martial law operations were being withdrawn immediately. He acknowledged the National Assembly vote to lift the state of emergency, citing the overwhelming demands from lawmakers and the public.

This development came less than 24 hours after Yoon’s controversial late-night declaration of martial law on December 3, which he justified as necessary to counter threats from North Korea and so-called “anti-state forces.” The move, seen by many as an attack on South Korean democracy, led to widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally.

Lawmakers and public unite against martial law

The swift reaction from South Korea’s National Assembly underscored the strength of the country’s democratic framework. Opposition lawmakers, outraged by the martial law declaration, stormed through security barricades to convene an emergency session. During the session, they unanimously cast their National Assembly vote against the president’s decision, making it constitutionally necessary to revoke martial law.

The opposition, led by the Democratic Party, described the situation as a betrayal of South Korean democracy. They labelled the martial law decree as an “insurrection” and demanded President Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation. Adding to the pressure, South Korea’s largest labour union announced plans for a nationwide strike, pledging to continue until Yoon stepped down.

Even Yoon’s ruling People Power Party saw fractures. Party leaders expressed regret over the president’s handling of the crisis, labelling the South Korea crisis as a “tragic moment” for the nation. The bipartisan consensus against martial law reflected the widespread disapproval of Yoon’s actions, with many questioning his judgment during this critical period.

Protests underscore public demand for democracy

Martial law protests erupted across the nation as news of the declaration spread. Tens of thousands of citizens poured into the streets of Seoul and other major cities, decrying what they saw as a threat to South Korean democracy. The protests, which symbolised unity against authoritarianism, were the largest public demonstrations since Yoon assumed office.

Chants of “Democracy, not dictatorship” rang out as protesters called for the immediate reversal of martial law. Many expressed outrage at the president’s justification, accusing him of using “anti-state forces” as a pretext for suppressing dissent. Protestors, undeterred by the late hour, emphasised their demand for government accountability.

International community reacts

South Korea’s close ally, the United States, was quick to respond to the unfolding crisis. The White House expressed relief at President Yoon Suk Yeol’s decision to rescind martial law and praised the National Assembly vote as a vital step in safeguarding South Korean democracy.

A U.S. government spokesperson emphasized the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and within the framework of democratic principles. The reversal was seen internationally as a stabilising moment in what could have been a deeper South Korea crisis with far-reaching consequences.

Political and economic consequences

While Yoon’s reversal of martial law has diffused immediate tensions, the political fallout remains severe. The opposition has continued to criticise him, intensifying calls for his impeachment. Observers say the martial law protests and National Assembly vote have severely eroded Yoon’s political standing.

Economically, the crisis rattled investor confidence. The South Korean won and key stock indices saw notable declines amid uncertainty. Analysts cautioned that the episode might undermine the nation’s image as a stable democracy and deter foreign investment.

A turning point for South Korean democracy

The swift and united opposition to martial law has been celebrated as a victory for South Korean democracy. Yet the episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain democratic norms. The martial law protests and the rapid response of the National Assembly demonstrated the resilience of South Korea’s institutions, but they also underscored the challenges of preserving these values under pressure.

As the country navigates the aftermath of the crisis, the focus will likely shift to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s leadership and the potential long-term effects on South Korea’s political landscape. While the immediate threat to democracy has been averted, questions about how the nation can prevent future crises linger.