Martial law has been declared on South Korea December 3 2024 by its current president, who vowed to eliminate “anti-state” forces during a surprise address on late night television as he grapples against a domestic political opposition that controls the parliament of the country.
Martial Law Declared on South Korea December 2024: Travel Alert
Yoon Suk Yeol claimed that the process of the parliament is being held hostage by opposition parties; and that the emergency declaration of martial law is necessary to protect the country from the communist forces of North Korea. Military troops have attempted to enter the assembly building of the parliament. Fire extinguishers were reportedly sprayed by aides of the parliament as they tried to push the soldiers back and force them to retreat.
Under martial law, activities by members of parliament and political parties would be banned; and that the command of marital law would control the media and publishers until further notice, as no timeframe had been set as to when or how martial law would end — but members of parliament unanimously voted to lift the declaration hours after martial law was declared.
The last time martial law was declared in the country was in October of 1979.
Meanwhile, the official currency of South Korea has sunk to its lowest level in years against the United States dollar. At the time this article was written, one United States dollar is equivalent to 1,423.29 South Korean won.
Final Boarding Call
Airlines have yet to announce any travel waivers as a result of the civil unrest that South Korea is currently experiencing — but that could change. Hopefully, stability will return to the country as quickly as possible.
Regardless, if you do plan on traveling to South Korea, you may not necessarily be in danger — but you could experience disruptions in transportation, dining, and other services there. Keep yourself updated as to the latest developments that occur there…
…and please travel safely.
All photographs ©2014 by Brian Cohen.
