South Korean President Declares Martial Law Amidst Impeachment Threat

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a televised national address on Tuesday, citing a need to protect freedom and constitutional order, Bloomberg reports.

The unprecedented move comes amidst escalating political tensions and ongoing efforts by the opposition to initiate impeachment proceedings against the president.

In his address, President Yoon accused the opposition of attempting to cripple the government through impeachment efforts, framing the declaration of martial law as a necessary measure to preserve stability and prevent the disruption of national governance.

“Through the declaration of martial law, I will rebuild and protect a free South Korea,” Yoon said, adding the decision was “inevitable.”

The country’a defense chief will hold a meeting with the military’s top commander, according to Yonhap News.