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#SOUTHKOREA--Martial Law--REFUSENIKS AND FREEZENIKS

#SouthKorea on the Radar 12/083/24/1200PST: President of embattled, divided Asian nation faces impeachment and overthrow. History, background, current status: martial law..

(Clipping: Los Angeles Tidings, 31 December 1954, Page 2)

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south korea martial law history

Martial law in South Korea has a significant and complex history, often tied to periods of political turmoil, military rule, and transitions to democracy.

Early Instances of Martial Law

The first declaration of martial law in South Korea was in 1948, just months after the country's formal establishment, by its first president, Syngman Rhee. This set a precedent for the use of martial law in times of perceived crisis
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Military Rule and Authoritarian Periods

Martial law was frequently imposed during the authoritarian regimes of the 1960s and 1970s. For example, after Park Chung-hee seized power in a military coup in 1961, martial law was used to maintain control and suppress opposition
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In 1979, following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee, martial law was declared by Prime Minister Choi Kyu-hah. This was extended in 1980 by a group of military officers led by Chun Doo-hwan to crush calls for democratic reforms
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Notable Incidents

The 1980 Gwangju Uprising is a significant example of martial law being used to quell intense protests. The military crackdown on this uprising resulted in significant loss of life and further solidified the authoritarian grip on the country at the time
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Transition to Democracy

South Korea transitioned to a parliamentary democracy in 1987, marking the end of the military dictatorship. Since then, martial law had not been declared until the recent announcement by President Yoon Suk Yeol
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Recent Declaration

On December 3, 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law for the first time since the 1980s. This declaration was made in response to what Yoon described as threats from "anti-state forces" and the opposition's control of the parliament, rather than any specific threat from North Korea. The move has been widely condemned by the opposition and has led to protests and a parliamentary vote to lift the declaration
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Legal Framework and Current Status

Under South Korean law, the president can declare martial law in times of war, armed conflict, or similar national emergencies to maintain public safety and order. However, martial law can be lifted with a majority vote in the National Assembly. In response to Yoon's declaration, the parliament has voted to lift the martial law, but the situation remains uncertain due to the ongoing political standoff
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south korea martial law

On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared a state of emergency martial law, a move that has sparked significant controversy and opposition.

Reasons for the Declaration

President Yoon justified the declaration by alleging that the opposition, which controls the National Assembly, is engaging in activities detrimental to the state. He accused the opposition of sympathizing with North Korea, paralyzing the government, and cutting crucial budgets for national operations, drug crime prevention, and public safety. Yoon claimed this martial law was necessary to protect the country from "communist forces" and to eradicate "anti-state elements" that are jeopardizing the nation's liberty and well-being

Measures Under Martial Law

The martial law declaration, led by General Park An-soo as the martial law commander, includes several stringent measures:

A ban on all political activities, including functions of political parties and local councils.
Prohibition on public gatherings, protests, and labor strikes.
Media outlets and publications are to fall under the jurisdiction of the Martial Law Command.
Healthcare professionals, including striking doctors, are mandated to resume their duties within 48 hours.
Individuals who breach the proclamation can be detained, searched, and seized without a warrant
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Reaction and Opposition

The declaration was met with strong opposition from various quarters:

Members of the National Assembly, dominated by the opposition Democratic Party, voted to urge President Yoon to revoke the martial law. The assembly later declared the martial law "null and void" following a resolution demanding its revocation
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Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung labeled the declaration as "illegal and unconstitutional" and called on citizens to gather at the National Assembly to oppose it
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Even within Yoon's own People Power Party, leader Han Dong-hoon criticized the decision, stating it was "incorrect" and vowed to oppose it
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Public Response

Protests erupted near the National Assembly, with citizens chanting "No martial law! No martial law" and clashing with police. Despite police barricades, some lawmakers managed to enter the assembly chamber, where they voted against the martial law. The situation remains tense, with ongoing demonstrations and resistance from the public

Legal Framework

Under South Korean law, the president can declare martial law when necessary to address military exigencies or ensure public safety and order. However, martial law can be revoked if a majority in the National Assembly votes for it. Given the opposition's majority in the parliament, the assembly's vote against the martial law could potentially nullify Yoon's declaration

Political Backdrop

President Yoon has faced significant challenges since his inauguration in 2022, including a political deadlock with the opposition-dominated parliament and declining public support. His approval ratings have been among the lowest for South Korean presidents, and he has been embroiled in various scandals involving his wife and senior officials

.The situation in South Korea remains highly volatile, with ongoing protests and political tensions as the country navigates this unprecedented declaration of martial law.

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south korea martial law histor