South Korean President Declares State of Emergency, Opposition Upset

seoul - President Yoon Suk-yeol of South Korea has declared a state of emergency in a late-night televised address, leading to backlash from his own party and the opposition.

President Yoon declared the state of emergency to protect the country from the threat of North Korean communist forces, eliminate pro-North Korean anti-state forces that jeopardize the freedom and happiness of the people, and safeguard the constitutional order.

However, the opposition, led by the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), objected to the move as unconstitutional. The President's own People Power Party (PPP) also opposed the declaration. Yoon's dwindling popularity among South Koreans, due in part to scandals involving his wife and party officials, has further complicated the situation.

The commander of the South Korean Army, General Park An-su, stated that under the state of emergency, political activities, media, and activism have been restricted. All forms of protests inciting social unrest, including strikes and gatherings, are now prohibited. Additionally, all healthcare workers' leaves have been revoked.