South Korea in Turmoil: Martial Law Declared by President Sparks Nationwide Fury

South Korea in Shock as Martial Law Drama Unfolds: Protests, Fear, and Political Chaos

South Koreans are reeling from a whirlwind of shock, fear, and confusion after President Yoon Suk Yeol's surprise declaration of martial law on Tuesday, followed by a rapid U-turn under mounting public and political pressure. The move plunged the nation into turmoil, sparking protests, emergency mobilizations, and fears of a return to authoritarian rule.

In a televised address, President Yoon justified his announcement by citing the need to protect South Korea from North Korea's communist forces and “anti-state elements.” Hours later, parliament blocked the measure after intense backlash, leaving many questioning the president’s motives and the country’s future stability.

Seoul resident Ra Ji-soo described hearing helicopters near her home, likening the moment to a “coup d’état in Myanmar happening here in Korea.” She voiced her alarm to the BBC, saying, “I’m worried.” Another resident, Kim Mi-rim, shared that she had packed an emergency kit, fearing the situation could escalate into mass arrests and detentions.

The immediate fallout saw the military suspend all parliamentary activities, and footage captured clashes between police and protesters outside the National Assembly. Lawmakers eventually forced their way into the chamber to vote against the declaration, amid a heavy police presence in the capital's Yeongdeungpo District.

Critics accuse Yoon of using martial law as a desperate response to his leadership woes. “I’m terrified South Korea is turning into another North Korea,” one resident told the BBC anonymously, citing fears of eroded freedoms.

The crisis has left the nation’s economy reeling, with the currency crashing and small business owners like Don Jung Kang fearing lasting damage. “Just from his words, the currency has crashed... It will seriously affect importing materials,” Kang said.

Protests erupted across Seoul, with opposition lawmakers and demonstrators gathering outside the National Assembly. Chanting slogans like “No to martial law” and “Strike down dictatorship,” citizens expressed outrage over the president’s actions. The tensions culminated in clashes with police, before Yoon’s reversal brought a brief sense of relief and celebration.

The dramatic events have sparked widespread anxiety, with university student Juye Hong describing the chaos as “a complete nightmare.” Rumors of soldiers and tanks in major districts and uncertainties over schools, the economy, and military conscription have left families and friends scrambling for clarity.

As the dust settles, South Koreans are left grappling with the implications of this unprecedented political crisis, questioning the stability of their democracy and the future of President Yoon’s leadership.