South Korea's President Yoon declares martial law, lifts it hours later
On 3 December 2024, in South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a late-night TV address and lifted it hours later after the National Assembly voted against it.
Summary
On 3 December 2024, in South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an unexpected late-night television address, vowing to eliminate 'anti-state' elements. Lawmakers forced their way into the National Assembly and voted to reject the order, and Yoon's government lifted the measure early on 4 December.
Key facts
- Date / place
- 3 Dec 2024 (late night), South Korea
- Declared by
- President Yoon Suk Yeol
- Reversal
- National Assembly voted against it; lifted early on 4 Dec
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Which South Korean President declared martial law on 3 December 2024 and lifted it hours later?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — Yoon Suk Yeol
BBC and The Hindu (3 Dec 2024): President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late on Tuesday, 3 December, and it was lifted hours later after lawmakers voted against it.
Consider the following statements about South Korea's martial law declaration of 3 December 2024: 1. It was lifted after the National Assembly voted to reject it. 2. It remained in force for more than a week. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — 1 only
BBC and The Hindu: lawmakers voted to reject martial law and Yoon's government lifted it early on 4 December, within hours, so statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is wrong. Answer: 1 only.