South Korean Parliament Overturns President Yoon Suk Yeol's Martial Law Declaration

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late on Tuesday, aiming to counter "anti-state" elements amid tensions with an opposition-led parliament. This decision, reminiscent of past authoritarian regimes, was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. Speaker Woo Won Shik announced the martial law as "invalid," emphasising the commitment to protect democracy alongside the citizens.

Following this declaration, police and military forces began withdrawing from the Assembly's premises. Lee Jae-myung, head of the Democratic Party, which holds a majority in the 300-seat parliament, stated that party members would remain in the Assembly until Yoon officially rescinds his order. Protesters gathered outside, demanding Yoon's impeachment.

Political Tensions and Reactions

The president's unexpected move drew criticism from both opposition leaders and members of his conservative party. Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon's People Power Party, labelled the martial law imposition as "wrong" and pledged to oppose it with public support. Lee Jae-myung described Yoon's action as "illegal and unconstitutional."

Yoon justified his decision during a televised address, claiming it was necessary to "rebuild and protect" South Korea from potential ruin. He vowed to eliminate pro-North Korean forces and uphold constitutional democracy. He urged citizens to trust him despite any inconveniences they might face.

International Concerns and Military Directives

The White House expressed serious concern over the developments in Seoul. A National Security Council spokesperson mentioned that President Joe Biden's administration was not informed beforehand about the martial law announcement but was in contact with South Korean officials.

South Korea's military announced that political gatherings causing "social confusion" would be halted. They also ordered striking doctors to resume work within 48 hours, warning of arrests without warrants for non-compliance. Thousands of doctors have been on strike over plans to increase medical school admissions.

Assembly's Response and Public Sentiment

Soon after Yoon's declaration, Speaker Woo urged lawmakers to convene at the National Assembly through his YouTube channel. He called for calm among military and law enforcement personnel. All 190 lawmakers present voted unanimously to lift martial law.

Television footage showed soldiers leaving the parliament grounds post-vote. Earlier visuals depicted police blocking the National Assembly entrance and armed soldiers stationed outside. An Associated Press photographer noted military helicopters landing within the Assembly area.

Historical Context and Political Challenges

This marks South Korea's first martial law declaration since its democratisation in 1987. The last instance occurred in October 1979 after former dictator Park Chung-hee's assassination. Yoon has faced challenges pushing his agenda against an opposition-controlled parliament since taking office in 2022.

The opposition has attempted to impeach top prosecutors investigating Lee Jae-myung, seen as a frontrunner for the 2027 presidential election. Yoon has dismissed calls for independent probes into scandals involving his wife and officials, facing backlash from political adversaries.

Yoon's approval ratings have declined recently amid these political struggles. His hardline stance on North Korea contrasts with former President Moon Jae-in's engagement policies. The ongoing budget bill impasse further complicates relations between Yoon's party and the liberal opposition.