South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, accusing the opposition of paralyzing the government with a pro-North Korea agenda. This proclamation adds to an already intense political climate, sparking controversy and eliciting a swift reaction from domestic political actors and international observers.

In a televised address President Yoon justified the severe measure by alleging that the opposition-controlled parliament has been engaging in activities sympathetic to the North Korean regime, undermining the democratic framework of South Korea. “I declare martial law to protect the free Republic of Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces,” President Yoon stated. “Through this martial law, I will rebuild and protect the Republic of Korea, which is falling into the abyss of national ruin.”

Despite the president’s stern warnings and measures, the National Assembly swiftly moved to counteract the declaration. In an extraordinary session, parliamentarians voted overwhelmingly, with 190 votes in favor, to lift the martial law order. The vote demonstrated a rare unity among lawmakers present inside the chamber, who unanimously opposed the president’s decision.

As President Yoon’s move backfired, South Korean soldiers and police, who had been deployed to enforce martial law, were seen vacating the National Assembly building in Seoul shortly after the parliamentary vote. The swift legislative action, marked by its decisiveness, signaled a strong institutional rejection of the President’s drastic measure and has been interpreted by many as an apparent coup attempt that has ultimately failed.

Internationally, the situation has drawn cautious attention. The Deputy US Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, expressed concern, emphasizing the importance of a resolution that adheres to democratic principles and the rule of law. “We are watching the recent developments in the ROK with grave concern,” Campbell stated, using South Korea’s official title, the Republic of Korea.

The leader of the South Korean opposition, Lee Jae-Myung, released a video live-streaming himself jumping a fence to enter the parliament building intending to vote down the president’s martial Law.

Domestically, reactions have been mixed within the ruling party itself. Han Dong-hoon, the leader of President Yoon’s political party, publicly expressed regret over the martial law declaration. In a social media post, Han acknowledged that martial law was no longer in effect following the parliamentary intervention.

As South Koreans process the day’s extraordinary events, the Polish Embassy in Seoul has issued precautionary advisories, urging the public to avoid gatherings amid the prevailing uncertainty. The UK updated its travel guidance saying “No travel can be guaranteed safe”. This episode marks a significant moment in South Korea’s contemporary political landscape, highlighting the dynamic tensions between executive authority and legislative power.