South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol shocked the nation and the international community on December 3 by declaring martial law. However, the move was short-lived, as Parliament swiftly demanded its termination, forcing President Yoon to comply just hours after his initial announcement.
This rare invocation of martial law marked the first such declaration in South Korea in decades, bringing back memories of the country’s turbulent history of military rule and authoritarian governance.
Historical Context of Martial Law in South Korea
South Korea has a fraught history with martial law, often tied to periods of political upheaval. The last instance occurred in October 1979 following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee, a military leader who had seized power in a 1961 coup. His successor, Prime Minister Choi Kyu-hah, extended martial law in 1980 under pressure from military leaders, including General Chun Doo-hwan, banning political parties and sparking violent crackdowns on pro-democracy forces. Hundreds lost their lives before martial law was lifted in 1981.
The first martial law declaration dates back to 1948 when President Syngman Rhee, supported by U.S. forces, used it to suppress a communist-led military rebellion. Martial law was also invoked during the Korean War and several other moments of crisis throughout the country’s turbulent early years.
What Martial Law Entails in South Korea
Under South Korea’s constitution, the president has the authority to declare martial law during times of war, armed conflict, or national emergencies. Martial law grants the government sweeping powers, including restricting press freedom, limiting public assembly, and overriding civilian courts.
There are two types of martial law in South Korea: emergency martial law, which President Yoon invoked, and security martial law. In both cases, the president must notify the National Assembly. If the assembly votes for its termination, the president is constitutionally obligated to comply, as seen in this recent incident.
Democracy Tested and Restored
President Yoon’s declaration marked a significant moment for South Korea’s democracy, which has remained intact since 1987 following decades of military rule. While his initial move to suspend civilian governance raised alarm, the swift response from Parliament and the subsequent lifting of martial law reaffirmed the country’s democratic resilience.
This event has reignited discussions about the limits of presidential powers and the enduring legacy of martial law in South Korea’s political history.