What South Koreans Are Saying After a Brief Glimpse at Martial Law

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law order marked the first time in more than 40 years the country had come under military rule.

People react as they gather outside the National Assembly in Seoul on Dec. 4, 2024, after South Korea President Yoon Suk-yeol declared emergency martial law. Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s decision to declare martial law on Dec. 3 startled citizens across his country.

While Yoon reversed the decision after only a few hours, many South Koreans are left wondering about the lasting impacts his decision will have on the nation.