South Korea in Crisis: Army Deploys in Seoul as President Imposes Martial Law

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - In a shocking move, President Yoon Suk-yeol has declared martial law in South Korea, prompting the army to deploy in the capital city of Seoul. The decision has sparked a deepening political crisis in the country, with opposition parties and lawmakers condemning the move as "unconstitutional" and "illegitimate".

Army Deployment

On Tuesday, images emerged of soldiers stationed outside and inside the National Assembly building in Seoul. The deployment comes after President Yoon's announcement, which cited the need to protect South Korea from "communist forces" and "anti-state elements".

Parliamentary Rejection

The National Assembly had earlier rejected President Yoon's decisions, with 190 lawmakers voting against the measures out of 300 present. The parliamentary speaker declared the imposition of martial law "null and void", while the opposition leader described it as an "unlawful" move.

Party Reactions

The ruling People Power Party's leader, Han Dong-hoon, described the martial law declaration as a "mistake" and vowed to work with the people to prevent it. Other parties also condemned the move, labeling it "unconstitutional" and "hostile to the public".

Presidential Address

In a surprise televised address, President Yoon justified the imposition of martial law, citing the need to protect South Korea's liberal democracy from threats posed by North Korea and "anti-state elements". He also pointed to the opposition party's moves to impeach senior prosecutors and reject the government's budget proposal, which he claimed threatened the country's stability.

Security Measures

Following the declaration, Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun ordered an emergency meeting of senior military commanders, calling for heightened vigilance and maximum readiness. Security measures around the National Assembly were also reinforced, hindering lawmakers' access to the building.

Consequences

The developments come at a time when President Yoon's popularity is waning, and his government is struggling to pass its legislative agenda in the opposition-controlled parliament. The ruling party has reached a stalemate with the opposition over the budget bill for next year.

Timeline of Events

Analysis

The imposition of martial law has raised questions about the future of President Yoon's rule and the stability of South Korea's politics. The move is seen as a desperate attempt to consolidate power and silence opposition, but it may ultimately backfire and