DEVELOPING STORY: In a move he claims is designed to "protect the free Republic of Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces, to eradicate the despicable pro-North Korean anti-state forces that are plundering the freedom and happiness of our people, and to protect the free constitutional order,” President Yoon declared martial law and moved forces into position in parliament and other government facilities in South Korea. He claims his political opposition, which controls the national assembly, hindered the work of the government.

“They are paralyzing the judiciary by intimidating judges and impeaching a large number of prosecutors, and even paralyzing the executive branch by impeaching the minister of public administration and security, the chairman of the Korea Communications Commission, the chairman of the Board of Audit and Inspection, and the minister of national defense,” Yoon said.

Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung called on South Koreans to gather in opposition.