A tumultuous night in South Korea saw President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected announcement of martial law trigger chaos and protest across the nation. Nineteen-year-old student Hwang, who was watching news coverage of international events, was jolted when the focus shifted to his own country and witnessed Yoon’s declaration. By Wednesday afternoon, he joined hundreds of demonstrators outside the National Assembly, expressing confusion and opposition to the president’s drastic move.
Yoon’s announcement, made at 11 PM local time, stated that the martial law was necessary to protect the country from what he termed “anti-state” forces supporting North Korea. Compounding his government’s struggles with a stalling budget bill and ongoing corruption scandals, the declaration ignited unrest in a nation that has only recently emerged from military rule, which ended in 1987. As protests erupted, police attempted to secure the National Assembly, but this only fueled public outcry as thousands gathered to voice their dissent.
The situation escalated quickly as opposition figures, like Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, called for immediate protests via live stream. Responding to this rallying cry, hundreds of South Koreans flocked to the National Assembly, where rising tensions were palpable. Participants donned winter wear and chanted against martial law, despite the police presence stationed outside. Amidst a backdrop of confusion, some individuals bravely disrupted military vehicles by lying under them in a show of defiance.
In the face of an uncertain and alarming night, individuals in Seoul expressed a mix of trepidation and disbelief at such developments occurring in the 21st century. Reports circulated that special forces had been deployed, with helicopters hovering above the assembly, raising concerns about press censorship and safety.
With lawmakers facing an uphill battle to counteract Yoon’s declaration, they needed to enter the assembly building and vote against the martial law order. Many opposition parliamentarians resorted to climbing fences and squeezing past security personnel, illustrating their determination to uphold democracy in the country. Lawmaker Lee Seong-yoon recounted scaling a fence to join the protest, emphasizing the resilience of South Korean democracy.
Eventually, after a flurry of activity, those who made it into the assembly barricaded the entrances and deliberated on the president’s order. By 1 AM, the Speaker put a resolution to lift the martial law to a vote. In a remarkable show of solidarity, 190 lawmakers—including some from Yoon’s party—voted unanimously to block the president’s decision.
The events that transpired exemplify a turning point for South Korean democracy, where citizens and their representatives united swiftly against authoritarian measures. This incident highlights the strength of democratic values amongst the populace and serves as a testament to their commitment to safeguarding their freedoms. As South Korea navigates these turbulent times, the collective response reveals a resilient society determined to protect its democratic institution and history.