South Korea: Martial Law Command Issues Decree Prohibiting Political Activities
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Seoul, Dec 4 (NationPress) A military command, formed after the declaration of martial law by President Yoon Suk Yeol late Tuesday, has issued a decree that prohibits all political activities, including protests and actions by political parties in South Korea.
The decree, announced by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, a four-star general appointed to lead the command, became effective at 11 PM on Tuesday.
"All political activities, including those associated with the National Assembly, regional assemblies, political parties, the establishment of political organizations, rallies, and protests are prohibited," Park stated.
Park emphasized that the decree has been issued nationwide to safeguard free democracy and protect citizens from anti-state forces that threaten to destabilize the country.
The decree also places all media and publishing entities under regulation, and requires trainee doctors participating in a walkout to return to work within 48 hours, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
"The act of denying free democracy or attempting to subvert it is forbidden; spreading fake news, manipulating public opinion, and inciting false narratives is prohibited," Park added.
Individuals who breach martial law may face arrest or search without a warrant, according to the decree.
With the imposition of martial law, the commander oversees administrative and legal affairs in the affected area and can implement special measures regarding arrests, seizures, media, and collective actions as needed.
Legally, the commander operates under the supervision of the defense minister but is subject to presidential oversight when martial law is declared across the entire country or when deemed necessary.
Meanwhile, South Korea's stock exchange operator has stated that a decision on whether the stock markets will operate as usual on Wednesday remains pending following President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected emergency martial law declaration.
Yoon announced martial law during a surprise late-night address on Tuesday, accusing the opposition of dominating the parliament and hindering the government through what he termed "anti-state activities."
"It has not yet been decided if the stock markets will open Wednesday," an official from Korea Exchange remarked.
The benchmark KOSPI and tech-focused KOSDAQ markets are set to open at 9 AM and close at 3:30 PM.
