South Korean president declares emergency martial law

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared an "emergency martial law" on Tuesday, accusing the opposition-controlled parliament of sympathising with North Korea and engaging in anti-state activities that have paralysed the government.

In a televised briefing, President Yoon vowed to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order.”

However, the specific details of how the emergency measures would impact governance and democracy were not immediately clarified.

Yoon, whose approval rating has declined in recent months, has faced significant challenges in advancing his agenda due to a deadlock with the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

His conservative People Power Party has been at odds with the liberal Democratic Party, particularly over next year’s budget bill. Additionally, Yoon has faced criticism for dismissing calls for independent investigations into scandals involving his wife and senior officials.

In response to the declaration, the Democratic Party reportedly convened an emergency meeting of its lawmakers to discuss the situation.

The declaration of martial law marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political crisis in South Korea. The effects on the country’s governance and the political landscape remain to be seen.