Martial law bans political activities, curbs press freedom

President Yoon Suk Yeol is delivering an emergency national address at the Presidential Office in Yongsan Seoul on the night of December 3 declaring martial law Courtesy of the Presidential Office — President Yoon Suk Yeol is delivering an emergency national address at the Presidential Office in Yongsan, Seoul, on the night of December 3, declaring martial law. Courtesy of the Presidential Office

SEOUL, December 03 (AJP) - Following the declaration of martial law Tuesday by President Yoon Suk Yeol, the Martial Law Command issued a sweeping proclamation to maintain public order and suppress subversive activities. It banned all political activities, including the operations of the National Assembly, local councils, political parties, and demonstrations. Acts aimed at overthrowing the liberal democratic system, such as spreading fake news, manipulating public opinion, and inciting agitation, were also prohibited.

The proclamation placed all media and publications under the control of the Martial Law Command, significantly curtailing press freedom. Strikes, slowdowns, and other labor actions deemed to incite social disorder were banned, and medical professionals on strike were ordered to return to work within 48 hours, with violators facing punishment under the Martial Law Act.

The command pledged to minimize disruptions to the daily lives of law-abiding citizens, while asserting its authority to arrest, detain, and conduct searches without warrants under the Martial Law Act. Violators would face severe penalties.

President Yoon justified the move as a response to threats to national stability, calling it “an unavoidable measure to ensure the safety and freedom of the people, protect the nation’s sustainability, and secure a proper future for the next generation.”

While acknowledging potential public concern, Yoon pledged to minimize disruptions and maintain Korea’s foreign policy commitments. He appealed for public trust and support, stating, “I will dedicate myself entirely to defending the freedom of our nation. I ask for your faith and cooperation in this endeavor.”

Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com

Martial law bans political activities, curbs press freedom

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