Protests continued to sweep Seoul as South Koreans called for president Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation following his declaration and subsequent lifting of martial law in the country.
There were deep divisions in Yoon’s ruling People Power Party as well, as its leader called for Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun to be fired and the entire cabinet to resign, with the defence ministry saying Kim has now offered to resign.
Protesters gathered at Gwanghwamun Square and outside the national assembly on Wednesday, holding placards with messages such as “Restore Democracy” and “Investigate his act of rebellion immediately”.
South Korean opposition parties filed a motion to impeach the president. “We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives from six opposition parties, including the Democratic Party, said. They indicated the vote could happen as soon as Friday.
New CCTV footage revealed chaotic scenes in South Korea’s parliament after the martial law declaration. Staffers used sofas and fire extinguishers to block soldiers armed with assault rifles and night-vision goggles from entering the national assembly, the footage showed.
Helicopters deployed armed troops to parliament, while others scaled fences and smashed windows after midnight, assembly secretary general Kim Min-ki said.
The president’s surprising move harkened back to an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s, and it was immediately denounced by the opposition and the leader of Mr Yoon’s own party.
Key Points
- Protests in Seoul as lawmakers call for president’s resignation
- Defence minister offers to resign
- CCTV footages reveals chaotic scenes inside South Korea’s parliament after Yoon’s declaration
- Calls for president’s impeachment grow
- South Korean president u-turns on martial law declaration
- Parliament votes to block declaration
Most of cabinet against martial law plan, officials say
15:17 , ReutersPresident Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration blindsided the ruling party, whose leader Han Dong-hoon told reporters the presidential office had not consulted with him about the move.
Reuters reports that at about four hours before his 10:23 p.m. announcement of martial law, Mr Yoon’s office first told the national police chief to be on standby, according to a police official.
At 9 pm Mr Yoon convened a cabinet meeting, where “most” members were against the plan, according to three government officials. But Mr Yoon forged ahead regardless.
Among those opposed were prime minister Han Duck-soo, a Yoon appointee who would become acting president if Yoon is removed from office, as well as foreign minister Cho Tae-yul, and finance minister Choi Sang-mok, one of the sources said.
A spokesperson for the prime minister’s office declined to comment.
A foreign ministry official confirmed Cho attended cabinet meetings before and after the martial law announcement but did not elaborate. A finance ministry spokesperson could not be reached outside business hours on Wednesday.
‘We had to stop this’: lawmaker grabbed at soldier’s gun during protest
14:54 , Angus ThompsonAmong the dramatic scenes outside South Korea’s parliament overnight was footage of journalist-turned-lawmaker Ahn Gwi-ryeong grabbing the nozzle of a soldier’s gun, in a brief tussle during the decree.
“I didn’t think… I just knew we had to stop this,” she told the BBC Korean Service after the event.
“When I saw the armed soldiers… I felt like I was witnessing the regression of history.”
Protestors disperse after candle-lit vigil
14:18 , Angus ThompsonProtestors have largely dispersed after a march that began in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, earlier tonight. Below are some images from the event, sparked by the president’s short-lived martial law decree.
US unaware of Mr Yoon’s intention to declare martial law, Blinken says
13:55 , ReutersThe United States was not aware of South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol’s intention to declare martial law, US secretary state Antony Blinken said on Wedesday in Brussels, adding that he was anticipating speaking with his South Korean counterpart in the coming days.
Speaking in an interview with Reuters news wire on the sidelines of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers, the top US diplomat said it was vital that the process from now on play out peacefully and according to the rule of law.
“South Korean democracy is one of the most powerful stories anywhere in the world. It’s very important that any disputes, differences, political differences, be resolved peacefully and pursuant to the rule of law. That’s what we’re seeing now. That’s what’s so important to sustain,” Mr Blinken said.
Washington had not been informed about the South Korean decision beforehand, he said. “That’s correct, we were not aware,” Blinken said
Blinken says South Korea a democratic success story
13:32 , Angus ThompsonSpeaking in Brussels a short time ago, US secretary of state Antony Blinken said the growth of democracy in South Korea had been an “extraordinary success story”.
His statement came in response to a press conference question in which he was asked whether the Asian nation should have hosted an international democratic summit earlier this year in Seoul.
“Of course, with Korea wanting to take on the summit for democracy, we were delighted at that, and we had a very successful summit,” Blinken said.
“Korea is one of the most powerful stories in the world about the emergence of democracy and democratic resilience, and we’ll continue to look to Korea to set that example,” he said.
How the world responded
13:16 , Angus ThompsonThe world sat glued to the events in Seoul overnight as president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration was rolled back soon after it began, paving the way for his impeachment by parliament.
Here are some of the reactions of western leaders to the political turmoil:
- US secretary of state Antony Blinken welcomed the swift reversal of martial law. “We continue to expect political disagreements to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law,” Antony Blinken said in a statement.
- British nationals in South Korea have been advised to avoid political demonstrations. Catherine West, the British minister for the Indo-Pacific, said the UK was “deeply concerned by the events in South Korea on the 3rd of December.”
- China’s foreign ministry has said it hoped South Korea would take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions following the country’s brief imposition of martial law.
- Swedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson postponed his planned visit to South Korea, citing the recent political developments.
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the surprise martial law declaration in ally South Korea that was reversed only hours later was worrying.
Test for South Korea’s democracy
13:00 , Namita SinghMr Yoon’s actions have drawn comparisons to South Korea’s authoritarian era before the 1980s. The sight of military helicopters and armed soldiers near the parliament evoked memories of the military regimes.
Analysts warn that such actions undermine the country’s hard-won democratic principles.
Natalia Slavney, a research analyst at the Stimson Center’s 38 North programme, described the episode as a “serious backslide of democracy” and part of a “worrying trend of abuse” under Mr Yoon’s leadership.
The crisis has drawn criticism from experts like Duyeon Kim of the Center for a New American Security, who argued that the turmoil has undermined President Yoon Suk Yeol’s international standing. “The fate of Yoon’s foreign policies remains uncertain and even bleak,” she remarked.
In spite of the political crisis, daily life in Seoul remained largely undisturbed. Tourists continued their activities, with one visitor, Stephen Rowan from Brisbane, remarking: “I would have been concerned if martial law had stayed enforced, but it seems things are settling down now.”
German chancellor says martial law declaration ‘worrying'
12:44 , Angus ThompsonGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said the surprise martial law declaration in ally South Korea that was reversed only hours later was worrying.
“It is very worrying that we are hearing that a country with which we are allies and friends, such as South Korea, has now declared martial law,” he told parliament. “My wish is that this will be withdrawn very quickly.”
President Yoon Suk Yeol in fact reversed his martial law declaration, which triggered the biggest political crisis in decades in Asia’s fourth-largest economy, just hours after he made it late on Tuesday.
Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte earlier reaffirmed that the alliance’s relationship with South Korea was “iron-clad” despite the upheaval, adding the announcement of the end of martial law in the country shows a commitment to the rule of law.
How will an impeachment motion take place?
12:34 , Namita SinghSouth Korea’s opposition lawmakers on Wednesday filed a formal motion for impeachment of president Yoon Suk Yeol following a brief and controversial declaration of martial law.
The motion, introduced by the opposition Democratic Party, could reach a vote as soon as Friday, according to lawmaker Kim Yong-min.
To succeed, it would require a two-thirds majority in parliament and the approval of at least six justices from the Constitutional Court.
Should impeachment proceedings succeed, Mr Yoon would be suspended from office while the Constitutional Court scrutinises and ratifies the motion, a process that could take up to six months.
In the interim, prime minister Han Duck-soo would assume presidential duties.
The path to impeachment is fraught with challenges, however. The Constitutional Court needs six of its nine judges to uphold an impeachment motion. Three seats on the bench are currently vacant, potentially complicating any ruling on the matter.
Overnight drama adds to financial uncertainties
12:18 , Angus Thompson, APGlobal stocks are mixed after overnight political drama in South Korea added to regional uncertainties.
Seoul’s Kospi fell 1.4 per cent and the won regained its initial sharp losses against the U.S. dollar.
The martial law declaration by presidentYoon Suk Yeol initially caused the won to plummet to a two-year low against the US dollar, with losses of up to 2 per cent, the sharpest one-day drop since the market’s seismic reaction to Donald Trump’s 2016 election victory.
The won recovered some of those losses on Wednesday. The dollar was trading at 1,414.43 won, down from Tuesday’s peak at 1,443.40.
China ‘hopes South Korea will ensure safety' of Chinese citizens
11:58 , Tara CobhamChina’s foreign ministry has said it hopes South Korea will take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions following the country’s brief imposition of martial law.
Rutte reaffirms Nato’s relationship with South Korea is ‘iron-clad'
11:52 , Tara CobhamNato Secretary General Mark Rutte has reaffirmed that the alliance’s relationship with South Korea is “iron-clad”.
He added that the announcement of the end of martial law in the country shows a commitment to the rule of law.
Watch live: Vigil march in South Korea as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment
11:50 , Tara Cobham
Watch live: Vigil march in South Korea as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment
Japan defence minister postpones South Korea visit, Kyodo says
11:50 , Tara CobhamJapanese defence minister Gen Nakatani has decided to postpone a visit to South Korea, which was tentatively planned for later this month, Kyodo news agency reported on Wednesday, citing unnamed sources.
Earlier, South Korea's Defence Ministry said South Korean defence minister Kim Yong-hyun had offered to resign amid the furore over President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law.
Is it safe to travel to South Korea? Foreign Office update after martial law blocked
11:30 , Tara CobhamBritish nationals in South Korea have been advised to avoid political demonstrations following the president’s declaration of martial law on Tuesday.
By early Wednesday, the president reversed the decision after a dramatic night in which troops surrounded parliament, and lawmakers voted to block military rule.
Yoon Suk Yeol vowed to eliminate “anti-state” forces as he suspended parliament, banned political gatherings and ordered the end of a long-running doctors’ strike on Tuesday.
Christopher McKeon looks into whether it is currently safe to travel to South Korea:
Is it safe to travel to South Korea? Foreign Office update after martial law blocked
Zealous tourists unfazed by South Korea's sudden martial law turmoil
11:07 , Tara CobhamMany tourists in Seoul seemed largely unfazed by the political turmoil unfolding in the capital as they flocked Wednesday to the city's largest palace, local landmarks and shopping streets.
Some awoke to worried text messages from friends and family, who heard the news about President Yoon Suk Yeol's stunning martial law declaration Tuesday night. Yoon abruptly imposed emergency martial law, vowing to eliminate "anti-state" forces after he struggled to push forward his agenda in the opposition-dominated parliament.
But his martial law was effective for only about six hours, as the National Assembly voted to overrule the president. With the declaration formally lifted, tourists ventured from their hotels.
Early Wednesday at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of royal palaces, tourists wore traditional clothing rented from nearby shops as they posed for photos.
Emma Basnawi, visiting from Indonesia, said she thought "something big might happen" when she heard about the martial law declaration, and was a little concerned. But riots and protests aren't unusual back at home in Jakarta so she planned to stick to her itinerary as much as possible, she said.
Walking toward the palace with a tour group, Stephen Rowan, of Brisbane, Australia, said he wasn't worried. He had asked a friend from South Korea to help him understand what was happening.
"I would have been concerned if martial law had stayed enforced," he said.
Early Wednesday morning, police with shields arrived in the palace area, known historically as a popular protest site. But other than that, it seemed like a normal cold Seoul December morning.
Not far from the palace, tour groups wandered through the Bukchon Hanok Village, taking photos of the residential neighborhood and its many restored traditional houses.
Panic buying erupts in South Korea following president Yoon's martial law declaration
10:50 , Tara CobhamSales of essentials like instant noodles, drinking water, and canned foods surged late Tuesday night following president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration, as citizens rushed to stock up in case of disruptions to their shopping routines, local media reported.
The panic buying began immediately after the declaration was broadcast at 10.25pm local time, with items flying off shelves at both online and physical stores, The Korea Times reported.
At convenience stores, sales increased rapidly. Between 11pm and midnight, one retailer saw a 75.9 per cent increase in canned food sales, a 37.4 per cent rise in bottled water, and a 28.1 per cent jump in instant noodle sales.
“The shopping rush was mostly active around residential areas and carried out by those in their 50s and 60s,” said a convenience franchise industry official.
Online platforms saw a similar surge. Real-time hot keywords on Naver showed “drinking water” jumping from 10th to 6th place in just one hour, while “milk”, “rice”, and “instant noodles” dominated searches on Homeplus’ website.
Who is Yoon Suk Yeol, man who declared martial law in South Korea?
10:32 , Tara CobhamSouth Korea is in turmoil after president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday night, only to revoke it hours later under immense pressure.
The decree, which marked the first attempt to impose such measures in over four decades, has sparked calls for his resignation and left the nation’s political landscape in disarray.
On Wednesday, opposition lawmakers filed a formal motion to impeach the president. It could be voted on as soon as Friday, said lawmaker Kim Yong-min.
My colleague Namita Singh takes a look at who exactly Mr Yoon is:
Who is Yoon Suk Yeol, man who declared martial law in South Korea?
How social media reacted to South Korea's martial law saga
10:29 , Tara CobhamSouth Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol has reversed his decision to impose martial law in the country after widespread protests with opposition parties since filing a motion to impeach him.
Martial law is when military authorities temporarily rule in a time of emergency, when civil authorities are deemed to not be able to function.
Shortly after the president imposed martial law, CCTV footage revealed chaotic scenes where staffers used sofas and fire extinguishers to block soldiers armed with assault rifles and night-vision goggles from entering the national assembly.
Jake Brigstock reports:
South Korean president’s martial law decree sparks international concern
10:24 , Tara CobhamSouth Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday evening but lifted it within hours after backlash and a parliamentary motion from opposition lawmakers and members of his own party.
He justified the decree as targeting “anti-state actors” allegedly sympathetic to North Korea but it promptly triggered clashes between the military and protesters outside the National Assembly in Seoul.
The parliament moved quickly to annul the declaration, with 18 members of Mr Yoon’s ruling party voting with the opposition.
My colleague Maroosha Muzaffar reports:
South Korean president’s martial law decree sparks international concern
Watch live: Protesters in South Korea hold vigil and march against President Yoon after martial law chaos
10:23 , Tara CobhamIn pictures: Protesters line streets of Seoul for candlelit vigil
10:22 , Tara Cobham
South Korean defence minister facing criminal charges of treason
10:20 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean defence minister Kim Yong-hyun — who reportedly requested the martial law decree — is facing impeachment and criminal charges of treason, The Korea Times reported.
The opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) is calling for the removal of Mr Kim, president Yoon Suk Yeol, and interior minister Lee Sang-min, accusing them of issuing an unconstitutional order.
The outlet reported that Mr Kim, who had previously dismissed the possibility of martial law, is now under investigation for allegedly plotting the decree soon after taking office.
The impeachment process and investigation into his role are expected to move swiftly, it said.
Mr Kim also offered to resign this morning over Mr Yoon’s failed martial law, the Reuters reported.
Defence minister offers to resign
10:06 , Chris StevensonThe political chaos has created deep divisions in president Yoon Suk Yeo's ruling People Power Party as well, as its leader called for defence minister Kim Yong-hyun to be fired and the entire cabinet to resign.
The Defence Ministry has now said that Mr Kim has offered to resign.
Opposition parties file motion to impeach president Yoon
09:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korea’s opposition parties announced today that they have filed an impeachment motion against president Yoon Suk Yeol following his brief martial law declaration.
Representatives from six opposition parties, including the main Democratic Party, revealed during a live press briefing that the motion was submitted urgently. They suggested the vote could take place as soon as Friday, AFP reported.
President Yoon’s office defended the martial law decree, calling it “justified and within the bounds of the constitution” and denied claims that martial law forces interfered with lawmakers’ access to parliament.
Mr Yoon reversed the declaration hours later after parliament rejected his move to ban political activities and censor the media.
In South Korea, impeachment requires a two-thirds vote in the National Assembly and approval from the Constitutional Court. Past impeachments include Park Geun-hye, who was removed in 2016, and Roh Moo-hyun, who was reinstated in 2004.
Nato monitoring the situation in South Korea
09:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarNato secretary general Mark Rutte said on Wednesday that Nato was closely monitoring the situation in South Korea, emphasising that the alliance’s relationship with the country is “ironclad”.
He said: “We are following events in South Korea, we are interested in how the situation may develop further.” He said: “Our relationship with South Korea is key, our relationship with South Korea is ironclad.”
White House ‘relieved’ after lifting of martial law in South Korea
09:15 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe United States expressed relief after South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol reversed his martial law declaration.
A White House official said that “democracy is at the foundation of the US-ROK alliance” and said that the US was “seriously concerned” before the reversal.
The spokesperson added: “We are relieved president Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly’s vote to end it”, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.
The spokesperson said that they would continue to monitor the situation.
CCTV footages reveals chaotic scenes inside South Korea’s parliament after Yoon’s declaration
08:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarNew CCTV footage released today revealed the chaotic scenes in South Korea’s parliament after president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration.
Staffers used sofas and fire extinguishers to block soldiers armed with assault rifles and night-vision goggles from entering the national assembly, the footage shows.
Helicopters brought heavily armed troops into the parliamentary compound, while other soldiers climbed fences and smashed windows to gain entry after midnight, described as an “unconstitutional and illegal” act by assembly secretary general Kim Min-ki.
“We will identify the physical damages and losses caused by the declaration of martial law and hold those responsible accountable through legal action.”
Opposition parties file motion to impeach president Yoon
08:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean opposition parties announced today that they have filed a motion to impeach president Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief declaration of martial law.
“We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives from six opposition parties, including the main Democratic Party, said during a live press briefing.
They indicated the vote could happen as soon as Friday, AFP reported.
Meanwhile, president Yoon’s office defended the martial law declaration, calling it “justified and within the bounds of the constitution” and denied that martial law forces interfered with lawmakers’ access to parliament.
Mr Yoon reversed the order hours later after parliament rejected his attempt to ban political activity and censor the media.
In Pictures: Protests in Seoul
08:15 , Maroosha Muzaffar
ICYMI: US embassy in South Korea issues emergency alert
08:00 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe US embassy in South Korea issued an emergency alert today, advising American citizens to exercise caution following the lifting of martial law in the country.
The embassy said that the situation remained “fluid” after South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration was overturned by the National Assembly.
“Following President Yoon’s announcement to lift the martial law declaration, the situation remains fluid,” the embassy said on its website.
“US citizens should anticipate potential disruptions. When in public, you should pay attention to your surroundings and exercise routine safety precautions,” the posting said, Yonhap news agency reported.
The embassy also announced the cancellation of routine consular appointments and visa services for the day.
ICYMI: South Korean forces clash with crowds outside parliament after martial law declared
07:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarVideos show chaos outside the South Korean parliament building as military soldiers try to hold off crowds after President Yoon Sook Yeol declared martial law in the country.
The footage circulated on social media shows people believed to be South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party’s staff, trying to block soldiers at the National Assembly.
Earlier on Tuesday, the unpopular President Yoon declared martial law as he vowed to ‘eradicate pro-North Korean anti-state forces’ but the South Korean parliament quickly voted to overturn the declaration.
Mr Yoon’s poll ratings have fallen in recent months after he dismissed calls for independent probes into scandals involving his wife and top officials.
South Korean forces clash with crowds outside parliament after martial law declared
South Korean president calls off martial law following tense showdown with opposition
07:15 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol has announced he will undo his dramatic declaration of martial law just hours after his military clashed with protesters outside parliament.
The short-lived decree, which opposition figures described as a coup, shocked South Korea as the president vowed to eliminate “anti-state” actors he accused of sympathising with communist North Korea.
After the edict late on Tuesday night, the military surrounded the National Assembly in Seoul and clashed with protesters outraged at the declaration.
Less than three hours later, parliament voted to lift the declaration, with National Assembly speaker Woo Won Shik declaring that the martial law was “invalid” and that parliamentarians “will protect democracy with the people”. Even Mr Yoon’s own party called for the declaration to be undone.
But the military refused to back down as officials said they would wait for the president to respond to the vote, in accordance with the constitution.
Read more here:
South Korean president calls off martial law following tense showdown with opposition
How impeachments work in South Korea
06:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean lawmakers are planning to impeach president Yoon Suk Yeol, adding to the country’s history of presidential impeachments. This follows the martial law crisis that threw the entire nation into a tizzy yesterday.
The process of impeachment in South Korea requires a two-thirds vote in the National Assembly and approval from the constitutional court.
Previous impeachments in South Korea include Park Geun-hye, who was removed in 2016, and Roh Moo-hyun, who was reinstated in 2004.
CCTV footages reveals chaotic scenes inside South Korea’s parliament after Yoon’s declaration
06:48 , Maroosha MuzaffarNew CCTV footage released today revealed the chaotic scenes in South Korea’s parliament after president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration.
Staffers used sofas and fire extinguishers to block soldiers armed with assault rifles and night-vision goggles from entering the national assembly, the footage shows.
Helicopters brought heavily armed troops into the parliamentary compound, while other soldiers climbed fences and smashed windows to gain entry after midnight, described as an “unconstitutional and illegal” act by assembly secretary general Kim Min-ki.
“We will identify the physical damages and losses caused by the declaration of martial law and hold those responsible accountable through legal action.”
Opposition parties file motion to impeach president Yoon
06:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean opposition parties announced today that they have filed a motion to impeach president Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief declaration of martial law.
“We’ve submitted an impeachment motion prepared urgently,” representatives from six opposition parties, including the main Democratic Party, said during a live press briefing.
They indicated the vote could happen as soon as Friday, AFP reported.
Meanwhile, president Yoon’s office defended the martial law declaration, calling it “justified and within the bounds of the constitution” and denied that martial law forces interfered with lawmakers’ access to parliament.
Mr Yoon reversed the order hours later after parliament rejected his attempt to ban political activity and censor the media.
White House ‘relieved’ after lifting of martial law in South Korea
06:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe United States expressed relief after South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol reversed his martial law declaration.
A White House official said that “democracy is at the foundation of the US-ROK alliance” and said that the US was “seriously concerned” before the reversal.
The spokesperson added: “We are relieved president Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly’s vote to end it”, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.
The spokesperson said that they would continue to monitor the situation.
Protests intensify in Seoul as South Koreans demand president Yoon’s resignation
06:31 , Maroosha MuzaffarProtests intensify in Seoul as South Koreans demand president Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation following his declaration and subsequent reversal of martial law.
Demonstrators gathered at Gwanghwamun Square and outside the national assembly, holding placards reading “Restore Democracy” and “Investigate his act of rebellion immediately”.
Opposition lawmakers joined the rallies, escalating calls for Yoon’s resignation and impeachment, with opposition parties advancing a bill to suspend him.
Asian stocks drop amid South Korea’s political unrest as won hits two-year low
06:15 , Maroosha MuzaffarAsian markets retreated Wednesday after overnight political drama in South Korea added to regional uncertainties, though the Kospi in Seoul fell less than 2 per cent.
US futures rose while oil prices were little changed.
South Korea PresidentYoon Suk Yeol suddenly declared martial law on Tuesday night local time, prompting troops to surround the parliament. He accused pro-North Korean forces of plotting to overthrow one of the world’s most vibrant democracies. The martial law was revoked about six hours later.
On Wednesday, South Korea’s main opposition party called for President Yoon to resign immediately or face impeachment.
Read more here:
Asian stocks drop amid South Korea’s political unrest as won hits two-year low
Why did South Korea declare martial law and what is next for Yoon Suk Yeol?
05:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korea‘s president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a surprise late-night television address, invoking the threat from North Korea and accusing the country’s opposition of paralysing the government by controlling parliament.
He did not cite any specific threats from Pyongyang and focused on his political opponents.
“I declare martial law to protect the free Republic of Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces, to eradicate the despicable pro-North Korean anti-state forces that are plundering the freedom and happiness of our people, and to protect the free constitutional order,” Mr Yoon said.
South Korea’s parliament then voted through a motion calling the declaration invalid. This was the first time in over four decades that the country had been put under martial law.
Read the full story here:
Why did South Korea declare martial law and what is next for Yoon Suk Yeol?
Protests in Seoul as lawmakers call for president’s resignation
05:54 , Maroosha MuzaffarAmid growing calls for president Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation, a coalition of lawmakers has threatened impeachment if he does not step down, planning to vote on a bill within 72 hours.
“The parliament should focus on immediately suspending the president’s business to pass an impeachment bill soonest,” Hwang Un-ha, a member of the coalition said.
The leader of Mr Yoon’s ruling People Power Party has called for defence minister Kim Yong-hyun’s dismissal and the resignation of the entire cabinet.
Protests are expected, with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions planning a rally in Seoul and vowing to strike until Mr Yoon resigns.
Is it safe to travel to South Korea? Foreign Office update after martial law blocked
05:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarBritish nationals in South Korea have been advised to avoid political demonstrations following the president’s declaration of martial law on Tuesday. By early Wednesday, the president reversed the decision after a dramatic night in which troops surrounded parliament, and lawmakers voted to block military rule.
Yoon Suk Yeol vowed to eliminate ‘anti-state’ forces as he suspended parliament, banned political gatherings and ordered the end of a long-running doctors’ strike on Tuesday.
Following the declaration, the UK Foreign Office issued new travel advice warning British nationals to ‘follow the advice of local authorities’ and ‘avoid political demonstrations’.
Read more here:
Is it safe to travel to South Korea? Foreign Office update after martial law blocked
US embassy in South Korea issues emergency alert
05:20 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe US embassy in South Korea issued an emergency alert today, advising American citizens to exercise caution following the lifting of martial law in the country.
The embassy said that the situation remained “fluid” after South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration was overturned by the National Assembly.
“Following President Yoon’s announcement to lift the martial law declaration, the situation remains fluid,” the embassy said on its website.
“US citizens should anticipate potential disruptions. When in public, you should pay attention to your surroundings and exercise routine safety precautions,” the posting said, Yonhap news agency reported.
The embassy also announced the cancellation of routine consular appointments and visa services for the day.
Former South Korean foreign minister reacts to martial law crisis
04:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarFormer South Korean foreign minister Kang Kyung-wha praised the strength and resilience of the country’s democracy following the turbulent events of president Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law declaration.
She told the BBC: I am hugely relieved that the dust appears to be settling”, adding that the quick responses from both citizens and politicians to oppose the order demonstrated the country’s democratic maturity.
Reflecting on the situation, Kang said: “My first reaction was - this can’t be happening to my country, a fractious democracy, but certainly a vibrant and an increasingly mature democracy.”
She described Yoon’s martial law decision as “an aberration” and emphasised that the events showed South Korea’s democracy is still “strong and resilient”.
White House ‘relieved’ after lifting of martial law in South Korea
04:35 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe United States expressed relief after South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol reversed his martial law declaration.
A White House official said that “democracy is at the foundation of the US-ROK alliance” and said that the US was “seriously concerned” before the reversal.
The spokesperson added: “We are relieved president Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly’s vote to end it”, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.
The spokesperson said that they would continue to monitor the situation.
South Korean stocks drop nearly 2% amid martial law crisis
04:12 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean stocks fell nearly 2 per cent this morning following political upheaval sparked by president Yoon Suk-yeol's brief declaration of martial law, later overturned by parliament.
The KOSPI index dropped to 2,451.63, with foreign investors selling heavily, offsetting local purchases, The Korea Times reported.
Major companies, including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and Hyundai Motor, saw declines, while a few, like Korea Zinc, posted gains amid ongoing corporate battles.
The Korean won also weakened against the US dollar, reflecting market volatility amidst the turmoil.
How impeachments work in South Korea
03:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarSouth Korean lawmakers are planning to impeach president Yoon Suk-yeol, adding to the country’s history of presidential impeachments. This follows the martial law crisis that threw the entire nation into a tizzy yesterday.
The process of impeachment in South Korea requires a two-thirds vote in the National Assembly and approval from the constitutional court.
Previous impeachments in South Korea include Park Geun-hye, who was removed in 2016, and Roh Moo-hyun, who was reinstated in 2004.
Swedish PM postpones South Korea visit following martial law crisis
03:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarSwedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson has postponed his planned visit to South Korea this week, his spokesperson confirmed this morning.
Kristersson was set to meet South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol for a summit, but the trip was deferred after Yoon declared martial law on Tuesday, only to revoke it following parliamentary opposition.
“Given the recent developments, we have decided to postpone the visit,” the spokesperson said.
“We have been in contact with South Korea this morning and will work together to reschedule for a future date.”
Jubilant celebrations after president Yoon reverses martial law
03:19 , Maroosha MuzaffarPresident Yoon Suk-yeol’s abrupt reversal of martial law in South Korea triggered jubilant celebrations among thousands of protesters who had braved the freezing night outside parliament.
As the announcement was made in the early hours, crowds erupted with cheers, chanting "We won!" and clapping in victory, according to BBC.
Many had gathered in defiance of the military presence, maintaining a tense vigil through the night.
Calls for president’s impeachment grow
03:10 , Maroosha MuzaffarLawmakers in South Korea are calling for president Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment, and opposition parties are pushing a bill to suspend him.
The martial law order, aimed at countering alleged threats from North Korea and “anti-state forces”, was rejected by parliament, leading to chaotic scenes with troops storming the National Assembly.
Protests erupted nationwide, with unions vowing strikes until Yoon stepped down. Financial markets reacted sharply, prompting emergency government interventions to stabilise stocks, bonds, and the currency. The situation remains volatile, with more demonstrations expected, according to Reuters.
Senior aides to president Yoon resign
02:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarSenior aides to president Yoon Suk-yeol, including his chief of staff and senior secretaries, resigned this morning.
This followed Mr Yoon’s decision to lift the martial law order he issued late Tuesday night after facing pressure from lawmakers.
President Yoon’s advisers resign
02:11 , Graig GraziosiSouth Korean news agency Yonhap is reporting that members of President Yoon Suk Yeoi's administration, including his chief of staff, have issued collective resignations. His national security adviser, and his chief of staff for policy have also resigned.
On Tuesday, Yoon enacted martial law, kicking off a broad and swift rebuke both from South Koreans and the broader international community. Yoon eventually backed off his decision, but that did not stop both the opposition Democrats and the nation's largest trade union federation from calling for his resignation.
Protesters gather in central Seoul to protest President Yoon
01:08 , Graig GraziosiProtesters have gathered just outside Gwanghwamun Square in downtown Seoul to protest President Yoon Suk Yeoi's decision to declare martial law on Tuesday.
Yoon walked back the move late on Tuesday, but not before political and labor leaders called for his resignation.
The protest is primed to disrupt commuters in the city's center during rush hour.
Police with riot shields have descended on the city center in response to the growing protester presence.
South Korean labor leaders plan to strike until President Yoon resigns
00:26 , Graig GraziosiThe largest trade confederation in South Korea has vowed to strike until President Yoon Suk Yeoi resigns.
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions said it will "fight alongside the people" by striking until Yoon resigns.
"KCTU members will stop working according to the strike guidelines," and will call for Yoon's resignation for his "treason."
In addition to striking, the confederation said it will "conduct nationwide emergency actions for social reform," according to South Korean media.
The trade union confederation represents 12 million South Korean laborers.
Leaders of the laborers are planning to rally Wednesday morning in Gwanghwamun Square.
Police set up barricade near government after martial law incident
Tuesday 3 December 2024 23:58 , Tom Watling
South Korea opposition party calls for President Yoon’s resignation, says it will pursue impeachment if he does not step down
Tuesday 3 December 2024 23:55 , Graig GraziosiSouth Korea's opposition party said it planned to begin impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol this morning if he does not step down immediately.
The move comes on the heels of Yoon's decision to enact martial law on Tuesday. The nation's Democratic Party called his actions an act of rebellion that warrants impeachment.
"We will not sit idly by and watch President Yoon's crime of destroying the Constitution and trampling on democracy," the party said in a statement. "President Yoon should immediately resign voluntarily."
US urges citizens in South Korea to avoid areas where protests taking place
Tuesday 3 December 2024 23:31 , Tom WatlingUS citizens in South Korea should avoid areas where protests are taking place, the Embassy in Seoul said in a statement, after South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law and then reversed course.
White House relieved Sout Korea president has backed down on martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 23:00 , Tom WatlingThe White House said on Tuesday it was relieved that South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol had reversed course over a martial law declaration in the country.
“Democracy is at the foundation of the US-ROK alliance, and we will continue to monitor the situation,” a spokesperson said, referring to South Korea by the initials of its official name, the Republic of Korea.
Top South Korean politician demands president explain decision to declare martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 22:31 , Tom WatlingThe leader of South Korea’s governing party has called on president Yoon Suk Yeol to explain his decision to declare martial law.
People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon said in a statement: “As the ruling party, we feel deeply sorry to the public.”
He added: “The president must directly and thoroughly explain this tragic situation. The minister of defense, who recommended this martial law, should be immediately dismissed, and all those responsible must be held strictly accountable.”
South Korean President Yoon says he will lift martial law following parliament vote
Tuesday 3 December 2024 22:01 , Tom WatlingSouth Korean politicians watch President Yoon undo martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 21:31 , Tom Watling
South Koreans cheer in Seoul after president says he will lift martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 21:00 , Tom WatlingUS, South Korean militaries in contact after martial law declaration and walkback, Pentagon says
Tuesday 3 December 2024 20:30 , Tom WatlingThe US and South Korean militaries are “in contact” after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, adding there was no request for assistance from Seoul amid the unfolding events.
The two military outfits connected prior to the South Korean president announcing he would reverse his decree later on Wednesday morning.
Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder told a news briefing he also did not believe the martial law declaration had any significant impact so far on the roughly 28,500 US troops deployed to South Korea.
South Korean president u-turns on martial law declaration
Tuesday 3 December 2024 20:14 , Tom WatlingSouth Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced that he will soon lift the martial law he imposed during a tense night of political drama in which troops surrounded parliament and lawmakers voted to reject military rule.
Yoon said his government had withdrawn the military personnel that had been deployed, and that he would formally lift martial law following a Cabinet meeting as "soon as members arrive."
Watch live: Protesters storm South Korea’s National Assembly after president declares emergency martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 20:01 , Tom Watling
South Korea protesters celebrate after president says he will lift martial law
South Korea's lawmakers pass resolution against martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 19:45 , Tom Watling
Protesters call for South Korean president to step down
Tuesday 3 December 2024 19:32 , Tom Watling
Opposition call for end of martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 19:16 , Tom Watling
South Korea's ruling party urges president to lift martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 19:01 , Tom WatlingSouth Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s own ruling party has urged him to swiftly lift martial law following a parliamentary vote against the decree, Yonhap news agency reported on Wednesday.
South Korea military says it will uphold martial law
Tuesday 3 December 2024 18:44 , Tom WatlingThe South Korean military has said it will uphold the decree of martial law so long as the president Yoon Suk Yeol maintains it.
The comments came after parliament, dominated by the opposition, voted to end martial law.
Live: State Department briefing with Matthew Miller
Tuesday 3 December 2024 18:33 , Tom WatlingSouth Korean forces clash with crowds outside parliament after martial law declared
Tuesday 3 December 2024 18:31 , Tom WatlingSouth Korean forces clash with crowds outside parliament after martial law declared
US embassy in Seoul ‘closely tracking’ situation
Tuesday 3 December 2024 18:15 , Tom WatlingThe U.S. Embassy and Department of State are closely tracking President Yoon's recent declaration of martial law. The situation is fluid. Please monitor local news sources for updates as the situation progresses and sign up here to receive direct updates from the Department of…
— Ambassador Philip Goldberg (@USAmbROK) December 3, 2024
Why has South Korea declared martial law and what is it?
Tuesday 3 December 2024 18:02 , Tom WatlingBiden being briefed on situation in South Korea
Tuesday 3 December 2024 17:46 , Tom WatlingUS president Joe Biden has said that he is “just getting briefed” on the situation in South Korea.
He gave the comments after giving a speech in Luanda, Angola.
Earlier, a senior US official said they were watching the situation in South Korea with “grave concern”.
