Backlash Over Brief Martial Law in South Korea

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faced widespread backlash and demands for resignation after his brief imposition of martial law, which was swiftly lifted following unanimous parliamentary rejection and massive protests. The martial law, declared to counter alleged 'anti-state' activities and North Korean threats, marked the first such declaration since South Korea's democratization in 1987 and was seen as a grave constitutional violation. The opposition Democratic Party called for Yoon's impeachment, and labor unions are planning further protests demanding his resignation. The declaration, which lasted only a few hours, also rattled financial markets with significant declines in cryptocurrency values. The United States, a key ally, expressed initial concern over the martial law but welcomed its prompt reversal. The incident has intensified political tensions in South Korea, with Yoon's approval ratings already at a low.