South Korean president declares state of emergency and imposes martial law

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an unexpected late-night TV address, accusing opposition lawmakers of sympathizing with North Korea. The parliament quickly passed a resolution demanding that Yoon lift his order, while protesters gathered outside the building in defiance. Yoon stated that martial law was necessary to protect the country from external threats. The Martial Law Commander, Gen. Park Ahn-soo, issued a proclamation banning political activities, controlling media, and ordering medical professionals to return to work. This is the first time martial law has been declared in South Korea since 1980. Despite the declaration, there have been no reports of tanks or soldiers on the streets. The announcement led to a sharp decline in the Korean won against the U.S. dollar. Yoon’s approval rating has dropped due to controversies, and his party has clashed with the opposition-controlled parliament over next year’s budget. The leader of the ruling Democratic Party vowed to block the declaration, warning that martial law could lead to the country’s collapse. The defense minister called for heightened vigilance in response to the declaration. Opposition leaders have criticized Yoon’s actions, fearing that military rule would take over the country. Overall, the declaration of martial law has sparked significant opposition and concern within South Korea.

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