White House relieved as South Korea lifts martial law
South Korean lawmakers watch screens showing a news broadcast of President Yoon Suk Yeol's speech on lifting martial law, at the main conference hall of the National Assembly in Seoul on December 4, 2024. (AFP Photo)
The White House on Tuesday voiced relief over South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s decision to reverse his brief imposition of martial law, a move that drew swift domestic and international condemnation.
“We are relieved President Yoon has reversed course on his concerning declaration of martial law and respected the ROK National Assembly’s vote to end it,” a National Security Council spokesperson said in a statement to Anadolu. “Democracy is at the foundation of the U.S.-ROK alliance, and we will continue to monitor the situation.”
The remarks came after a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo early Wednesday passed a resolution to formally lift martial law. President Yoon, addressing the nation for the second time within hours, said his government would comply with the parliamentary decision to rescind his emergency decree.
“Martial law will be lifted immediately by accepting the National Assembly’s request through a State Council meeting,” Yoon declared, signaling the end of the country’s first martial law in 45 years.
The decision followed overwhelming opposition from lawmakers, with 190 of 300 members of parliament voting against the declaration. The president’s initial announcement, made late Tuesday, cited the need to “save the country against anti-state forces.”
Under martial law, sweeping restrictions were imposed, halting political activities, dissolving parliament, and banning protests and demonstrations. The measures were met with widespread discontent, sparking public celebrations when Yoon announced the withdrawal of military forces from government institutions.
The episode marked a rare and dramatic challenge to South Korea’s democratic framework, with observers highlighting the decisive role of the National Assembly in restoring constitutional order.
For now, the White House’s statement underscores the importance of democratic principles in the alliance between Washington and Seoul, with officials on both sides closely watching the aftermath of Yoon’s controversial decision.
