Some of you may have seen the headlines. On the night of December 3, South Korea faced an unprecedented situation: martial law was declared. When I first heard the news, I dismissed it as fake. I imagine many other Koreans thought the same. But it was real—a stark reminder of the dark history South Korea endured 45 years ago, now threatening to repeat itself.
The Background of Martial Law
At 10:23 PM on December 3, the President of South Korea abruptly addressed the nation, citing the need to eradicate so-called "anti-state forces." With this vague reasoning, martial law was declared. However, this declaration blatantly violated the constitutional conditions and procedures required for such an extreme measure.
Shortly after, an illegal martial law proclamation was issued. Elite special forces arrived via helicopter to blockade the National Assembly, the only body with the authority to revoke martial law. This action was another clear violation of the constitution.
The Swift Response of Koreans and Lawmakers
The Korean people and members of the National Assembly responded with remarkable composure and speed. Through social media platforms and YouTube, news of the declaration spread rapidly. Despite the late hour, citizens gathered at the National Assembly.
Initially, police attempted to block access, but the crowd held its ground, ensuring lawmakers could enter the building. Some lawmakers even scaled fences to gain access.
When soldiers arrived, citizens physically blocked them from advancing. Remarkably, they even stopped military armored vehicles with sheer numbers. National Assembly staff barricaded the chamber with furniture to prevent soldiers from interfering.
To revoke martial law, at least 150 lawmakers needed to convene. Miraculously, 190 lawmakers managed to bypass the police and military to gather in the chamber. Amidst the chaos, they followed due process and unanimously voted to repeal martial law.
A Peaceful Yet Tense Standoff
Over 200 soldiers entered the National Assembly grounds, met by citizens resisting nonviolently. The entire ordeal was livestreamed on YouTube, revealing something extraordinary: despite the physical confrontations, no one was injured.
One striking scene showed a fallen soldier being helped up by a civilian, while another clip captured a soldier calming an agitated citizen with a hug.
This reflected the soldiers' own predicament. They had been misled by commanders into believing they were on a mission related to North Korea. Confused and reluctant to harm civilians, many performed their duties minimally, prioritizing safety.
Fortunately, within just two and a half hours, martial law was repealed. As the soldiers retreated, citizens encouraged and cheered for them.
South Korea’s Unique Protest Culture
Although martial law was rescinded, public outrage against the President remains. Massive protests demanding impeachment are ongoing across the country. Even in the freezing weather, thousands of South Koreans gather nightly in the streets.
South Korea has prior experience with presidential impeachment, just eight years ago. While it’s disheartening to see history repeat itself so quickly, the nation’s protest culture has matured significantly.
This time, young people have taken the lead, transforming protests into something akin to K-pop concerts. Protesters wave glowing sticks, sing k-pop songs, and create a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere. After each protest, streets are left impeccably clean, showcasing the citizens' determination to rebuild South Korea’s global reputation.
Looking Ahead
Coincidentally, at the same time as this crisis, South Korean author Han Kang—known for her novels depicting the martial law of 45 years ago—was receiving a Nobel Prize. Her work highlights the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy during a past era of military dictatorship.
Though this event has brought international embarrassment and severe consequences for South Korea’s economy and diplomacy, the people are once again uniting to safeguard democracy. This crisis, too, will become part of history, strengthening the nation’s democratic spirit.
South Korea has shown resilience before, and it will do so again. This will not only be a lesson but also a stepping stone toward a more mature democracy.
