On December 3, 2024, the president of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, declared martial law, shocking the nation. The National Assembly was quick to overturn the move, but the event resulted in protests and calls for impeachment. For South Korea, the decree was reminiscent of dark times. For the U.S., the event serves as a reminder of how emergency powers can be abused.

A Moment that Shocked the Globe

The South Korean Constitution allows martial law to be invoked during great unrest — when military force is the only means to protect public safety or in war or armed conflict. Under martial law, Army General Park An-Su took control of all media publications while prohibiting the assembly of political party events and citizen rallies. Additionally, he ordered all medical staff who were on strike to return to work in 48 hours. Then, he gave the military the power to carry out the unwarranted arrest of anyone who failed to comply.

Immediately following the martial law announcement, a member of President Yoon’s own party publicly announced his opposition on Facebook, calling the decree “a betrayal.” He promptly called citizens to action, saying “Together, with the people, we will stop this.” Lee Jae Myung, South Korea’s opposition leader, filmed himself on his way to the National Assembly, instructing citizens to assist with the attempts to stop military control.

South Korea’s History with Martial Law

South Korean law allows for marital law to be lifted if the majority of Parliament votes against it. Following an emergency meeting, the law was declared void. In response, President Yoon announced that he would lift the decree and has since faced calls to resign. Although this event came as a shock to many young citizens, a great number of elder citizens remember unpleasant memories of being under the authority of martial law. 

The law was first introduced in the city of Yeosu, during what is now known as the “Yeosu-Suncheon Incident.” In mid-October of 1948, the members of a South Korean Regiment in Yeosu refused to suppress a communist rebellion on Jeju island. The soldiers were eventually joined by other sympathizers — it soon became a Leftist and anti-Imperialist protest. The group attempted to establish a “Korean People’s Republic.” However, U.S. and South Korean government forces contained the movement. Regardless, the impact of the event was lasting. Concerned about internal defectors, shifting allegiances and the spread of Communism, South Korea purged itself of Communist sympathizers by passing a national security law that legalized the suppression of anti-State activities and groups.

In 1980, after the murder of President Park Chung Hee, General Chun Doo-Hwan staged a coup and invoked nationwide action. This led to the suppression of civil liberties, pro-democracy movements and an all-time high of human rights abuses. Protests erupted in the city of Gwangju. Meanwhile, General Chu sent armed vehicles and paratroopers to snuff out the uprising — killing at least 191 with rumors of higher, suppressed numbers.

Last Thursday, on December 5th, 2024, President Yoo publicly defended himself, claiming that his decision to declare martial law on December 3rd was not unlawful, and that he was acting against forces within Parliament that were a threat to democracy. However, lawmakers are seemingly unimpressed. Impeachment votes will be tallied on Saturday, and, following his speech to the nation, two more votes to impeach him were announced making the current tally seven. Eight are necessary for him to be successfully impeached. 

The Fragility of Liberty

While South Korea is a story of inspiration, it is also a cautionary tale. It’s a reminder to stay vigilant, recognize the symptoms of political erosion and continue to advocate for checks, balances and transparency. The event should inspire Democratic societies globally and serve as a reminder of the power of the people. Democracy is both fragile and resistant, and its preservation is dependent on its people. South Korea protected their democracy in unity, and it deserves accolades for its willingness to push against forces that sought to strip citizens of their natural liberty.

Acknowledgement: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author.