SOUTH KOREA: In a stunning development, South Korea’s parliament voted against President Yoon’s declaration of martial law just hours after the military had announced sweeping measures, including a ban on political activities and the control of all media under Martial Law Command. This move came amid mounting protests and a heavy police presence around the National Assembly.
Read also:
- Namibia Elect First Female President
- Trump Announces Kash Patel as His Nominee for FBI Director, Seeks to Replace Wray Timeline of Events Leading to Martial Law:
- Opposition Victory: Opposition parties secured a dominant win in the National Assembly elections, claiming over 60% of the 300 seats.
- First Lady Controversy: President Yoon publicly apologized on behalf of First Lady Kim Keon-hee following allegations that she had unlawfully accepted a luxury handbag.
- Proposed Budget: The government unveiled a massive budget plan aimed at addressing major challenges, such as rising healthcare costs and pension systems.
- Geopolitical Tensions: South Korea raised serious concerns over Russia’s attempt to form a defense pact with North Korea, adding to regional unease.
- Opposition Legal Relief: Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung was acquitted of charges related to witness tampering, providing a rare victory amid ongoing legal struggles.
- Vetoed Bill: President Yoon vetoed a bill calling for a special counsel investigation into corruption allegations involving his wife, rejecting the opposition-led effort for the third time.
- Budget Cuts: The opposition party significantly slashed President Yoon’s proposed budget, sparking a political showdown and criticism from his governing party.
- Impeachment Efforts: The Democratic Party moved to impeach three top prosecutors, accusing them of targeting their leader, who is seen as a strong presidential candidate for the upcoming election.
- Slumping Popularity: President Yoon’s approval rating hit a new low, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with his leadership.
- Martial Law Declaration: In response to the escalating political tensions, President Yoon declared emergency martial law, claiming it was necessary to restore a free and democratic society.
The situation in South Korea remains tense, with the martial law declaration deepening the divide between the ruling government and the opposition. Protests continue to grow as the nation faces a critical political crossroads.
