Seoul, Dec 3 (EFE).– South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, citing the need to protect the country’s constitutional order from “anti-state” activities.
He accused the Democratic Party (DP), the main opposition bloc, of being “pro-North Korean forces” following contentious budget cuts and motions to dismiss key government officials.
The move follows the opposition’s approval of a 2025 budget with significant cuts, as well as impeachment motions against the Attorney General and the head of the Board of Audit and Inspection, key officials responsible for overseeing public agency finances, without from the ruling People’s Power Party (PPP).
“The martial law is aimed at eradicating pro-North Korean forces and to protect the constitutional order of freedom,” Yoon said in a televised address to the nation.
According to the Yonhap news agency, the DP urgently called its lawmakers to the National Assembly following the declaration of emergency martial law.
DP leader Lee Jae-myung condemned Yoon’s move, calling the declaration “unconstitutional” and labeling it a move “against the people.”
“President Yoon declared emergency martial law for no reason,” Lee said.
“Tanks, armored vehicles, and soldiers with guns and swords will soon control the country.”EFE
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