South Korea / Institutions
South Korea reverses martial law after parliament intervenes
Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration triggered an immediate confrontation with lawmakers.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lifted martial law early on 4 December 2024, hours after declaring it. Troops had surrounded parliament, where lawmakers voted to reject military rule. The reversal followed intense political pressure.
Parliament challenges emergency rule
Lawmakers’ rejection of the order placed parliamentary authority directly against presidential emergency powers. The reversal halted the measure but left accountability for the confrontation unresolved. The episode exposed a constitutional conflict at the centre of South Korea’s government.
Sources & verification
Sources consulted on 30 September 2026. Event dates are stated above.
