South Korean protesters hold a banner that read “we condemn Yoon Suk Yeol’s illegal martial law” during a rally against President Yoon Suk Yeol at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on December 4, 2024, after martial law was lifted. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol abandoned a short-lived attempt at martial law on December 4 after lawmakers defied security forces to vote against his declaration and thousands of protesters took to the streets. (Photo by JUNG YEON-JE / AFP)
On December 4, 2024, protests erupted in Seoul, South Korea, following the lifting of martial law imposed by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration. Demonstrators gathered in Gwanghwamun Square holding banners condemning Yoon and accusing him of implementing “illegal martial law.” They demanded his resignation, citing issues such as government overreach, alleged favoritism toward elites, and strained economic conditions.
The martial law, South Korea’s first in over 40 years, was a controversial move that raised significant backlash from opposition groups and civil society. Critics claimed it was aimed at suppressing dissent and consolidating power under Yoon’s leadership. Following intense pressure, including legislative actions to revoke the measure, martial law was lifted, but protests against the administration’s broader policies and governance persisted.
What is martial law?
Martial law is a temporary measure in which a government places the highest priority on maintaining order and security, often in response to emergencies such as war, natural disasters, civil unrest, or large-scale disturbances. Under martial law, civilian authorities may cede control to the military or allow military forces to enforce laws and administer governance. Here’s what martial law typically entails:
Key Features:
- Suspension of Civil Liberties: Rights like freedom of assembly, movement, and speech may be restricted.
- Military Authority: The military may take over functions traditionally performed by the police or civilian government.
- Curfews and Restrictions: Strict controls may be placed on civilian activities, including curfews and checkpoints.
- Judicial Changes: Civilian courts may be replaced or supplemented by military tribunals.
Purpose:
Martial law is invoked to restore order or provide emergency governance in situations where regular authorities are unable to function effectively. However, its application is often controversial, as it can lead to abuses of power or suppression of dissent.
Historical Context:
- In some countries, martial law has been used during wars or invasions, such as during World War II.
- It has also been applied domestically, such as in the Philippines under Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s, which was used to suppress political opposition and extend his rule.
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South Korea has a notable history of martial law being imposed by previous leaders, particularly during periods of political instability and authoritarian rule.
 Instances of Martial Law in South Korea:
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Syngman Rhee (1948–1960):
- South Korea’s first president imposed martial law multiple times during his presidency to suppress opposition and maintain control. Notably, during the 1952 political crisis, Rhee declared martial law to pass constitutional amendments allowing him to extend his presidency.
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Park Chung-hee (1961–1979):
- After leading a military coup in 1961, Park declared martial law to consolidate his power. Martial law was imposed again in October 1972 to launch the Yushin Constitution, which granted him near-dictatorial powers. His rule remained under heavy military influence until his assassination in 1979.
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Chun Doo-hwan (1980–1988):
- Martial law was declared in May 1980 following the assassination of Park Chung-hee and subsequent unrest. Chun used martial law to suppress the pro-democracy Gwangju Uprising, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. This is one of the most infamous uses of martial law in South Korean history and is a key moment in its democratic struggle.
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Roh Tae-woo (1988–1993):
- While martial law was not imposed during his presidency, Roh was a close ally of Chun Doo-hwan and played a significant role in the events of the 1980s, including the implementation and enforcement of martial law during the Gwangju Uprising.
Current Context:
The recent imposition of martial law under President Yoon Suk Yeol in 2024 is the first since South Korea transitioned to a fully democratic system in the late 1980s. This has drawn comparisons to past authoritarian measures and has sparked widespread protests, reflecting the country’s sensitive history with military interventions in governance.
