In order to protect liberal democracy from the threat of overthrow of the Republic of Korea by anti-state forces that are lurking within the free Republic of Korea and to protect the safety of the people, the following matters are hereby issued throughout the Republic of Korea as of 23:00 on December 3, 2024.
1. The activities of the National Assembly, local councils, and political parties, as well as all political activities such as political associations, rallies, and demonstrations, are prohibited.
2. We prohibit any act that denies or attempts to overthrow the liberal democratic system, and prohibits fake news, manipulation of public opinion, and false propaganda.
3. All press and publication are under the control of martial law.
4. Strikes, sabotage and gatherings that cause social disorder are prohibited.
5. All medical personnel who are on strike or leave the medical field, including specialist doctors, shall return to their duties within 48 hours and work faithfully, and any violators shall be punished in accordance with the Martial Law Act.
6. Measures shall be taken to minimize inconvenience to the general public, except for those who overthrow the regime such as anti-state forces.
Violators of the above decrees may be arrested, detained, and seized and searched without a warrant in accordance with Article 9 of the Martial Law Act of the Republic of Korea (Martial Law Commander's Special Measures Authority), and shall be punished in accordance with Article 14 (Penalties) of the Martial Law Act.
2024.12.3.(Tue) Martial Law Commander Army Captain Park An-su
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose support ratings have dropped considerably in recent months, has struggled to achieve his political program since his victory in 2022 because of opposition-controlled legislative obstruction, according to the Associated Press.
The president's conservative ruling party has fought with the liberal Democratic Party on next year's budget ratification. At the same time, Yoon Suk Yeol has rejected requests for an independent probe into issues involving his wife and high-ranking officials, prompting strong condemnation from opponents.
Yoon Suk Yeol declared "emergency martial law" on Tuesday, accusing the opposition of controlling parliament, sympathizing with North Korea, and crippling the administration through anti-state measures. Yoon said the measure was crucial to preserving the country's constitutional system. Yoon said in a televised address, "To safeguard a liberal South Korea from the threats posed by North Korea's communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements... I hereby declare emergency martial law."
