South Korean President Announces Martial Law in Response to ‘Anti-State Activities’ Threats – One America News Network
OAN Staff James Meyers
8:43 AM – Tuesday, December 3, 2024
In a surprise late-night address aired on YTN television, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law, declaring his intent to eliminate “shameless pro-North Korean anti-state forces.”
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The president did not specify any threats from North Korea, instead directing his remarks toward his political opponents.
“I am declaring a state of emergency in order to preserve the constitutional order founded on freedom and eliminate disgraceful pro-North Korea anti-state groups that are infringing upon the freedom and happiness of our people,” Yoon announced on YTN news channel. He claimed these actions would shield the nation “from the threats posed by North Korea’s communist forces.”
“While the implementation of martial law may cause substantial inconvenience to those citizens who faithfully uphold the constitutional values of the Republic of Korea, I will endeavor to mitigate these disruptions,” he added.
His proclamation was swiftly followed by a statement from Martial Law Commander, Gen. Park Ahn-soo.
The statement declared that “all political activities” would be prohibited and that “all media and publications will be subject to the oversight of the Martial Law Command.”
“Strikes, work slowdowns, and gatherings that instigate social disorder are banned,” it continued. It further mandated “all medical professionals” to report to work within 48 hours.
“Individuals violating this proclamation will face arrest, detention, and searches without a warrant in accordance with Article 9 of the Martial Law Act,” it stated.
Yoon explained that he was compelled to take such action to maintain constitutional order, asserting that opposition parties had stalled the parliamentary process and pushed the country toward crisis.
However, he did not disclose specific measures to be enacted. Yonhap news agency reported that access to the parliament building had been restricted.
“Tanks, armored personnel carriers, and troops armed with weapons will govern this nation,” declared Lee Jae-myung, leader of the opposition Democrat Party, which holds the parliamentary majority, during a live stream. “The economy of the Republic of Korea is destined to irreparably collapse. My fellow citizens, gather at the National Assembly.”
Yoon also referenced a motion by Lee’s Democrat Party earlier this week to impeach several high-ranking prosecutors and their subsequent rejection of a government budget proposal.
The Korean won experienced a significant drop compared to the U.S. dollar following the announcement.
On the preceding Monday, South Korean ministers expressed their discontent regarding the Democrat Party’s recent decision to reduce the government’s budget proposal by over four trillion won ($2.8 billion). Yoon stated that this action compromised the efficiency of government operations.
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