Several hundred people gathered on the steps outside the National Assembly in Seoul on Wednesday afternoon, many clutching candles to hold vigil. The atmosphere was tense as President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late Tuesday, sparking memories of a similar period 44 years ago. For 64-year-old Mi-rye, the news felt surreal at first, reminiscent of a deepfake. Having experienced the strict curfews and surveillance of martial law in the past, she was overcome with fear.
Unable to sleep, Mi-rye traveled from her home city of Paju to Seoul, joining others in protest. Recalling the oppressive measures of the previous martial law, she expressed concerns about the potential reinstatement of such restrictions. Despite the relief felt when martial law was rescinded, the fear of its return lingered.
