The Latest Breaking News from Democracy

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration raises questions on democracy and governance in the country.

Secretary of State Blinken commends South Korea's democracy progress and resilience, highlighting the country's recent developments.

Just a year ago, the South Korean president, Yoon Suk Yeol, addressed the UK parliament with a speech that praised the country as the birthplace of liberal democracy. He pledged that South Korea would join with the UK in promoting freedom, peace and prosperity for the international community.

President Yoon's attempt to declare martial law in South Korea raises concerns amidst the country's democratic history and political gridlock.

It was last imposed in 1979 by Prime Minister Choi Kyu-hah after the assassination of President Park Chung-hee, a military dictator who had seized power in a 1961 coup

During a whirlwind few hours in South Korean politics, President Yoon Suk Yeol placed the country under martial law on Dec. 3, 2024, only to lift it just a short while later.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief imposition of martial law marks a new warning for the worldwide fragility of democracy, even in a country hailed as a model of political transformation.

Rightwing president backs down after most serious challenge to country’s democracy since 1980s

Secret ballots have long been fundamental to democracy, ensuring the integrity of elections in both government and corporate settings. Traditionally, votes are cast on physical paper, creating a clear separation between the voter’s identity and their choice. This anonymity protects individuals from vote-buying, intimidation or retaliation.