South Korea President Yoon Declares Emergency Martial Law, Vows to Eliminate Pro-North Korean Forces

SEAToday.com, Jakarta - South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol declared “emergency martial law”, accusing opposition parties of undermining the government. In a televised address, Yoon claimed that the opposition controlled parliament, sympathized with North Korea, and paralyzed government operations through anti-state actions.

"We will eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order," he vowed, though the implications of his declaration for the nation’s governance remain unclear as quoted from Guardian.

This bold move comes at a time when Yoon's approval rating has been in decline. Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has faced significant opposition from a parliament controlled by the liberal Democratic Party.

His struggle to push through his policies, including the contentious budget bill for the upcoming year, has fueled political tension.

In addition to legislative gridlock, Yoon has faced mounting criticism for dismissing calls for independent investigations into scandals involving his wife and key officials.

These controversies have intensified the political divide, with the opposition accusing Yoon of authoritarianism.

In response to his declaration, the Democratic Party convened an emergency meeting of its lawmakers. The move signals their deep concern over Yoon’s power grab and his controversial stance on the country’s political order.

As of December 4, 2024, the situation remains volatile, with the nation’s political future hanging in the balance. Yoon's leadership faces increasing scrutiny, and opposition forces are preparing to challenge his extraordinary measures.

Writer: Fariz Ahmad Luthfi