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Declaration of martial law in South Korea

IN BRIEF: What is known about introduction of martial law in South Korea

The ruling party and the opposition condemned this decision

© AP Photo/ Ahn Young-joon

SEOUL, December 3. /TASS/. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared "emergency martial law" in the country, Yonhap reported citing the presidential administration.

The ruling party and the opposition condemned this decision. The South Korean National Assembly building has been blocked off.

TASS has compiled the key facts about the situation.

Declaration of martial law

- South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared "emergency martial law," Yonhap reported citing the presidential administration.

- The measure is "aimed at eradicating pro-North Korean forces," the news agency said.

- The South Korean president said it was triggered by the opposition’s attempts to impeach a number of prosecutors and their rejection of a budget bill at the parliament.

- The announcement came as a surprise, media outlets noted.

- According to Yonhap, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun advised the country’s president to declare martial law.

- Park An-su, Chief of Staff of the South Korean Army, has been appointed commander following the declaration of martial law.

- For the duration of the emergency situation, Park introduced a ban on activities of the National Assembly, political parties, unions, as well as on holding rallies, Yonhap said.

- According to the news agency, all media outlets and articles will be subject to strict control.

Reaction

- The ruling People's Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon said the declaration of martial law was the "wrong" move, Yonhap said.

- The opposition has said that the president’s decision was unconstitutional. The Toburo Democratic Party has decided to assemble its delegates.

- Entrances and exits of the South Korean National Assembly building have been blocked.

- It has been reported that its speaker, Woo Won-shik, headed to the parliament.

- South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul has called a meeting of high-ranking officials, Yonhap said.

- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choi Sang-mok has also called a meeting.

- South Korean legislators have voted to lift martial law, the YTN TV channel reported.

Statement by Russian Embassy

- The Russian Embassy in Seoul has called on compatriots not to participate in any political manifestations amid martial law.

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