South Korean President Declares Martial Law for First Time Since 1980

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, for the first time in the country since 1980.

Yoon’s declaration saw the president accuse the country’s opposition of controlling the parliament, sympathizing with North Korea and paralyzing the government with anti-state activities.

Full Text of Military Decree

“In order to protect liberal democracy from the threat of overthrowing the regime of the Republic of Korea by anti-state forces active within the Republic of Korea and to protect the safety of the people, the following is hereby declared throughout the Republic of Korea as of 23:00 on December 3, 2024:

Provisions of the Decree

All political activities, including the activities of the National Assembly, local councils, and political parties, political associations, rallies and demonstrations, are prohibited.
All acts that deny or attempt to overthrow the liberal democratic system are prohibited, and fake news, public opinion manipulation, and false propaganda are prohibited.
All media and publications are subject to the control of the Martial Law Command.
Strikes, work stoppages and rallies that incite social chaos are prohibited.
All medical personnel, including trainee doctors, who are on strike or have left the medical field must return to their jobs within 48 hours and work faithfully. Those who violate will be punished in accordance with the Martial Law.
Innocent ordinary citizens, excluding anti-state forces and other subversive forces, will be subject to measures to minimize inconvenience in their daily lives.

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Violators of the Proclamation

Violators of the above proclamation may be arrested, detained, and searched without a warrant in accordance with Article 9 of the Martial Law Act of the Republic of Korea (Special Measures Authority of the Martial Law Commander), and will be punished in accordance with Article 14 of the Martial Law Act (Penalties).

Martial Law Commander, Army General Park An-su, Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

Conclusion

The declaration of martial law is a significant move by the South Korean government to address the growing threat posed by the country’s opposition and to protect the safety of its citizens.

FAQs

Q: What is the reason for the declaration of martial law?
A: The declaration of martial law is to protect liberal democracy from the threat of overthrowing the regime of the Republic of Korea by anti-state forces and to protect the safety of the people.

Q: What are the provisions of the decree?
A: The provisions of the decree include the prohibition of political activities, the control of media and publications, and the prohibition of strikes and work stoppages.

Q: Who is the Martial Law Commander?
A: The Martial Law Commander is Army General Park An-su.

Q: What are the consequences for violators of the proclamation?
A: Violators of the proclamation may be arrested, detained, and searched without a warrant, and will be punished in accordance with Article 14 of the Martial Law Act (Penalties).