2024. 12. 4. 00:00ㆍInvesting Korea
⚠️ The History and Major Cases of Martial Law in Korea ⚠️
Martial law is a special legal state declared to maintain safety in times of extreme national turmoil. In modern Korean history, martial law has been intertwined with significant political events, offering insights into the social changes within the country. 💡
1. President Yoon Suk-yeol's Declaration of Martial Law (2024) 🚨
📅 On December 3, 2024, President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, citing threats from North Korean communist forces and the need to eradicate pro-North anti-state forces. During an emergency briefing, President Yoon stated, "To protect the freedom of the Republic of Korea and eliminate the shameless pro-North anti-state forces that are robbing the people of their freedom and happiness, I declare martial law to safeguard the constitutional order." 🔊 This declaration has heightened national security concerns, requiring increased vigilance and preparedness from citizens.
This declaration has sparked significant controversy, with citizens feeling the tension between the transparency of information and national safety. 🌐
2. The May 16 Military Coup (1961) 🪖
On May 16, 1961, a military coup led by Major General Park Chung-hee resulted in the declaration of martial law. ⚔️ The coup was used as a means to seize power, allowing the military to take control of the government by force. 💥 This event marked the beginning of the military's expanded political influence in Korea, subjecting citizens to the oppressive rule of a military regime.
3. The Yushin Regime (1972) 🔒
In October 1972, President Park Chung-hee declared martial law citing a national emergency and enacted the Yushin Constitution. This drastically expanded presidential powers, dissolved the National Assembly, and severely restricted political freedoms. ❌ The Yushin regime is considered a period of significant regression for democracy in Korea, where citizens faced intense government control and suppression of free speech and activities.
4. The Busan-Masan Democratic Protests (1979) ✊
The Busan-Masan Democratic Protests in 1979 were part of the public resistance against Park Chung-hee's regime. To suppress the protests, the government declared martial law. 📛 This led to the assassination of President Park Chung-hee on October 26 of the same year, significantly impacting Korea's political landscape. The protests remain a testament to the importance of the people's voice against dictatorship.
5. The October 26 Incident and December 12 Military Insurrection (1979) ⚔️
Following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee in the October 26 Incident, martial law was declared nationwide to manage the resulting chaos. 🌀 The December 12 Military Insurrection saw the rise of Chun Doo-hwan and the new military faction, prolonging the state of martial law. Democratic procedures were disregarded, and the country remained under military control, suppressing the democratic rights of its citizens for an extended period.
6. The Gwangju Democratization Movement (1980) 🔥
On May 17, 1980, Chun Doo-hwan's new military faction expanded martial law across the nation. 🚨 All political activities were banned, and the National Assembly was dissolved. The Gwangju Democratization Movement, particularly in Gwangju, saw courageous resistance against military rule, resulting in significant sacrifices. This event remains a symbol of Korea's democratization movement, where the courage and sacrifices of citizens laid the foundation for democracy. 🌱