South Korea's President Yoon Rescinds Martial Law After Public and Parliamentary Rejection
Yoon's unprecedented declaration of martial law in South Korea's modern democratic era faced swift backlash from lawmakers and mass protests, forcing its withdrawal within hours.
- President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, citing threats from North Korea and alleged anti-state elements, marking the first such move in South Korea since 1980.
- The announcement triggered immediate protests in Seoul, with thousands gathering outside parliament to denounce the decision as an attack on democracy.
- Opposition lawmakers, who hold a supermajority in parliament, defied security measures to unanimously vote against the martial law declaration in a midnight session.
- Facing mounting pressure, Yoon rescinded the martial law early Wednesday after a cabinet meeting, calling it one of the shortest martial laws in history.
- The backlash has intensified calls for Yoon's resignation, with critics labeling the move an act of rebellion and a severe misstep in his already embattled presidency.
CNA 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 
The Japan Times 
CNBC 