
South Korea Lifts Martial Law After Parliament Votes Against It
In a dramatic turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lifted the martial law his government had imposed, following a bipartisan parliamentary vote that rejected the declaration. The measure was officially rescinded during a Cabinet meeting early on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at around 4:30 a.m., ending hours of political tension.
Events Leading to Martial Law Lift
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Declaration of Martial Law: President Yoon imposed martial law, citing threats from alleged pro-North Korean forces attempting to undermine democracy.
- Troops Deployed: Military personnel surrounded South Korea’s National Assembly, sparking national and international concern.
- Parliamentary Response: In an extraordinary late-night session, lawmakers voted decisively to reject the martial law declaration, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic processes.
President Yoon’s Statement
President Yoon confirmed the withdrawal of troops and acknowledged the parliamentary decision. The martial law decree, which had alarmed citizens and lawmakers alike, was nullified shortly after.
Political Fallout
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Opposition Reaction: The liberal opposition Democratic Party, holding a parliamentary majority, criticized the declaration and called for Mr. Yoon's resignation or face impeachment proceedings.
- Government Resignations: Senior advisers and secretaries from the President’s office have offered to resign in response to the controversy.
This episode marks a critical moment in South Korea's political landscape, reinforcing the resilience of its democratic institutions amidst significant challenges.
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