Will South Korean President Lee Address the 1st Anniversary of Martial Law?
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Synopsis
This week, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will deliver a crucial address marking one year since the martial law declaration by Yoon Suk Yeol. The speech is expected to recognize the public's vital role in restoring democracy and unity in a moment of national crisis. How will this shape Korea's democratic future?
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung will commemorate the anniversary of martial law.
- The address emphasizes the public's role in restoring democracy.
- A press conference will follow, attended by 80 foreign journalists.
- Key political figures will reflect on martial law's implications.
- South Korea has emerged resilient despite significant social divisions.
Seoul, Nov 30 (NationPress) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is set to give a significant address later this week, commemorating the first anniversary of his predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol's brief martial law declaration. The address aims to highlight the pivotal role of the public in the restoration of democracy, as stated by the presidential office on Sunday.
According to Presidential Secretary for Communication and Public Relations, Lee Kyu-yeon, the upcoming address, scheduled for Wednesday, will emphasize "the people's contributions in transforming a moment of profound chaos into peace" through their rallies.
Following the address, President Lee will engage in a press conference with around 80 international journalists, themed "A Renewed Democracy: One Year On," as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
"(President Lee) will reaffirm the rejuvenation of Korea's democracy to the global audience and convey a message of national unity during the press conference," the Secretary informed the media.
Additionally, President Lee will host a luncheon with five key figures from the three branches of government: National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae, Constitutional Court Chief Kim Sang-hwan, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, and National Election Commission Chair Roh Tae-ak. They will reflect on the implications of the martial law and deliberate on future challenges, according to the Secretary.
On December 3 of the previous year, Yoon declared martial law in a live broadcast from the presidential office, asserting that the opposition party was disrupting state affairs and that emergency measures were necessary to eliminate pro-North Korea factions and uphold constitutional order.
In response to the unexpected martial law declaration, thousands of citizens took to the streets wielding K-pop glow sticks, as armed troops moved to secure the National Assembly, shaking the foundations of the nation's hard-fought democracy.
One year later, South Korea has successfully restored political order and returned to a state of normalcy, emerging as a significant example of democratic resilience despite the pronounced social divisions revealed by the crisis.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the importance of President Lee Jae Myung's upcoming address. The focus on the public's role in restoring democracy not only reflects the resilience of the South Korean people but also underscores the ongoing challenges and responsibilities of leadership in maintaining democratic values. This moment serves as a reminder of the power of civic engagement in shaping the future.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of President Lee's address?
President Lee's address marks the first anniversary of the martial law declaration and highlights the public's role in restoring democracy, reinforcing national unity.
Who will be present at the press conference?
Approximately 80 foreign journalists will attend the press conference following President Lee's address.
What was the context of the martial law declared by Yoon Suk Yeol?
Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law to address disruptions caused by opposition parties, citing the need for emergency measures to protect national order.
