South Korea: Protests Erupt As Martial Law Declared

By Patrick Lancaster

Seoul, South Korea — South Korean President Lee Min-jun has declared emergency martial law, accusing opposition leaders of engaging in anti-state activities and threatening national security. The move, announced in a televised address, grants the military sweeping authority over public security and curtails civil liberties, including the right to protest and freedom of the press.

The opposition, led by National Democratic Party Chair Kim Hye-jin, has condemned the declaration as an “authoritarian power grab.” Protests have erupted in major cities, with demonstrators calling for the repeal of martial law and the president’s resignation. Clashes between protesters and police have already been reported, raising concerns of escalating unrest.

International reactions have been swift, with the United States and European Union expressing concern and urging a return to democratic norms. Critics have drawn parallels to South Korea’s authoritarian past, warning of significant risks to the country’s democracy.