US 'closely' monitors situation in South Korea as people gather outside parliament to protest martial law

The US on Tuesday said that it is “closely monitoring” the situation in South Korea as President Yoon Suk Yeol imposed emergency martial law earlier today.

“The Administration is in contact with the ROK government and is monitoring the situation closely,” a spokesman for the National Security Council said.

Yoon defended his move by saying that the country is threatened by “communist forces” and “anti-state elements”.

“I will restore the country to normalcy by getting rid of anti-state forces as soon as possible," the president said as he blamed the Opposition for creating instability in the country and being a “sympathiser” of North Korea.

People protest martial law

Hundreds of people gathered at the South Korean parliament early Wednesday to protest against the imposition of martial law, according to live footage.

“Open the gate, please. Your job is to protect the National Assembly. Why are you standing idly by while MPs are being trampled?” a middle-aged man shouted at a group of policemen guarding the gate.

Clashes with troops near the South Korean parliament under martial law pic.twitter.com/MqSPTpYYWW

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The country’s national assembly was sealed following Yoon’s announcement and helicopters were seen landing on the roof of the building in Seoul, in live television footage aired by broadcasters.

Chinese embassy calls for ‘caution’

China’s embassy in Seoul on Tuesday warned its citizens to exercise “caution” after the imposition of martial law in South Korea.

The embassy “advises Chinese nationals in South Korea to remain calm … enhance safety awareness, limit unnecessary outings, exercise caution when expressing political opinions,” it said in a statement.

What will happen now?

South Korea’s Constitution enables the president to impose martial law in response to military needs during times of war, armed conflict, or a national emergency.

Under emergency, certain freedoms are restricted including the right to press, publication, assembly and the powers of the government or courts.

South Korea was marred by massive doctors protests earlier this year which also saw many health professionals quit. Under martial law, however, all such doctors are required to return to duty within 48 hours.

All political activities, including the operation of the National Assembly and local councils, political party activities, political associations, assemblies, and demonstrations, are prohibited.

With inputs from agencies