Update 2024-12-03 (5): The President of the country has reportedly declared an end to the martial law through the cabinet on Wednesday morning (4 December, local time), after several hours of chaos.
Update 2024-12-03 (4): The National Assembly voted to lift the martial law declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol. According to recent reports, soldiers then removed themselves from the parliament building, which was surrounded by demonstrators.
Update 2024-12-03 (3): Large crowds are gathering around the parliament building in Seoul. It is likely that protests will also take place in downtown Seoul (e.g. Gwanghwamun Square) and other cities.
Travellers should avoid these gatherings, as the further development of the situation is unpredictable and there is a risk of arrests if the laws under martial law are enforced.
Update 2024-12-03 (2): Following the imposition of martial law, a military command has declared that all political activities in the country are prohibited. This includes protests and party activities. The decree came into force at 11 pm (local time).
Media freedom is also restricted by the decree. Violations of the decree can be punished with arrests.
Update 2024-12-03 (1): The parliament building in Seoul was sealed off following the president’s announcement.
According to initial media reports, another reason for the imposition of martial law was a political budget debate following which the president accused the opposition of endangering the country’s stability. There are also doubts about this decision by the president on the part of the ruling party. Further developments are not yet foreseeable.