On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, leading to accusations of abuse of authority and rebellion.

The political landscape in South Korea is deeply divided, with historical military rule contributing to ongoing left-right conflicts, particularly regarding relations with North Korea.

Despite initial volatility following the martial law declaration, South Korean financial and foreign exchange markets have shown signs of stabilization.

The current situation in South Korea draws parallels to challenges faced in the U.S. after January 6, 2021, highlighting the need for vigilance against executive overreach.

Experts warn that economic conditions in South Korea are likely to deteriorate due to the ongoing political crisis, raising concerns about future stability.

Yoon's spokesperson clarified that the martial law was lifted following constitutional procedures and denied any intent to disrupt parliamentary functions or arrest political opponents.

As Yoon's legal team is being formed, there is speculation about his potential testimony during the Constitutional Court proceedings, although his cooperation with law enforcement remains uncertain.

Amidst the political turmoil, the U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to a strong alliance with South Korea, emphasizing the need for stability in bilateral relations.

International reactions have been cautious, with the U.S. stressing democratic principles and the European Union calling for a swift resolution to the crisis.

Ongoing protests reflect a strong commitment from citizens to protect democracy against perceived authoritarian threats.

Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is working to reassure allies about stability, despite escalating tensions between political parties over government policies.

Yoon's administration had previously made progress in strengthening ties with the West, but these achievements are now threatened by the current political instability.