South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol left the people of Korea in utter shock with the declaration of martial law in the country. The decision came out of nowhere on Tuesday night. This marks the first time in 50 years that the country grappled with this drastic situation.

However, things didnt go as planned. The outrage and escalated tensions among people made President Yoon lift the ban nearly six hours after the announcement. The South Korean President even publicly apologized for his actions on Saturday in a live televised address.

President Yoon Suk Seol Apologizes for Declaring Martial Law

The agitated situation and the backlash for his decision made President Yoon issue a public apology. He acknowledged the unrest and distress caused by his actions and vowed never to repeat this. Yoon said, This emergency martial law declaration stemmed from my desperation as the ultimate responsible party for state affairs. I caused anxiety and inconvenience to the people, and for that, I deeply apologize.

He also added that his party will decide his political future and how to stabilize the situation of the country. The President further added, My party and the government will be responsible for the future management of the country. I bow my head and apologize once again for any worries I may have caused the people.

What In Reality Happened on Tuesday in South Korea?

Through a late-night TV broadcast, Yoon announced the implementation of martial law in the Asian democracy. Yoon justified his order by citing threats from anti-state forces and North Korea. However, it later became apparent that this move was less related to external dangers and more about Yoons political challenges.

Moments after the attempt was declared, thousands of people gathered outside the parliament, protesting. On the other hand, opposition lawmakers rushed to hold an emergency vote to reverse the measure. This also resulted in a massive confrontation with soldiers over the control of the building.

Most lawmakers managed to enter the chamber and vote down the Presidents decision. Defeated, Yoon eventually accepted the parliament’s decision and lifted the martial law order.

Now, the focus has shifted to whether lawmakers will move to impeach him, with the main opposition accusing Yoon of engaging in “insurrectionary behavior”.

What is a Martial Law?

The implementation of martial law suspends essential democratic freedoms and grants of authority in the hands of the military during war times or significant threats to public safety.

This decree also imposed strict limitations on press freedom and an end to the ongoing strike by junior doctors in South Korea.

Why Did President Yoon Declare Martial Law in South Korea?

Yoon defended his actions blaming his domestic political opponents for being involved in anti-state activities and plotting rebellion. He argued that he decided to safeguard the Constitution from what he labeled as pro-North Korean forces a term often used by some conservative factions in South Korea to criticize their liberal rivals.

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