South Korean President's Martial Law Declaration Overturned in Hours

President Yoon Suk Yeol's attempt to impose martial law was swiftly blocked by parliament, triggering calls for his impeachment and raising concerns over political stability.

President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late Tuesday, citing threats from 'anti-state forces,' but rescinded it within six hours after parliament's unanimous vote to overturn the measure.
The opposition-controlled National Assembly, joined by dissenting members of Yoon's own party, convened an emergency session despite military attempts to block access to the building.
Thousands of protesters gathered outside parliament, while lawmakers scaled fences and barricaded hallways to ensure the vote could proceed, ultimately rejecting the decree 190-0.
Yoon now faces an impeachment motion, with opposition parties accusing him of unconstitutional actions and some members of his ruling party expressing disapproval of his decision.
The crisis has sparked concerns about South Korea's political stability, its democratic institutions, and potential ramifications for international relations, particularly with the U.S. and Japan.