South Korea's Yoon Lifts Controversial Martial Law

In a dramatic political turn, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol revoked a martial law declaration just hours after its announcement, which aimed to suppress what he described as 'anti-state forces.' The declaration, met with overwhelming disapproval from parliament and protests across the nation, marked the first instance of martial law in South Korea in over 40 years. Lawmakers unanimously voted to demand its repeal, leading Yoon to announce the lifting of the emergency measure following pressure from both political opponents and the public. The declaration had temporarily led to military presence around the National Assembly and restrictions on political activities, causing significant unrest. Critics have condemned Yoon's initial decision as a serious overreach, with some calling for his impeachment. The situation has raised alarms internationally, particularly from the United States, regarding the stability of South Korea's democratic institutions.