South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law was overturned after the parliament voted unanimously to invalidate the decision. All 190 participating lawmakers supported lifting martial law, in line with constitutional provisions requiring parliamentary approval.
President Yoon had justified the martial law, citing the need to eliminate pro-North Korean forces threatening the country’s constitutional order. Following the announcement, military vehicles and helicopters were deployed in the capital, Seoul, and parliamentary and political activities were suspended.
The opposition, led by Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, protested the move, resulting in scuffles outside the National Assembly. Demonstrators demanded President Yoon face trial.
Hours later, Yoon reversed the martial law decision at a Cabinet meeting, ordering the military’s withdrawal. The reversal prompted celebrations among demonstrators gathered outside parliament.
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