The ITUC-Asia Pacific strongly condemns the declaration of emergency martial law in South Korea by President Yoon Suk-yeol. This anti-democratic action is a blatant attack on the constitutional order and a dangerous step towards dictatorship.
On the late night of 3 December, President Yoon declared an emergency martial law, granting sweeping powers to the military and effectively suspending democratic institutions. Within three hours, however, the National Assembly of South Korea unanimously passed a resolution to request the lifting of martial law. The Constitution mandates the President to comply with the decision without delay, yet the government announced the lifting with hesitation, providing an incomprehensible excuse for its delayed response.
The declaration of martial law fails to meet the conditions stipulated in the Constitution and a related Act, which require a “military necessity … in time of war, armed conflict or similar emergency.” The absence of such conditions, along with the lack of deliberation by the State Council and the interference and intrusion of the military force into the National Assembly, the legislature of South Korea, make the martial law not only unconstitutional but also an act of treason.
“South Korea has a proud history of overcoming dictatorial and military regimes to build a vibrant democracy. The people of South Korea have shown time and again their unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and human rights. At this critical moment, vigilance to safeguard democracy and rule of law is imperative,” said ITUC-Asia Pacific General Secretary Shoya Yoshida.
ITUC-Asia Pacific reaffirms its solidarity with the people of South Korea and its affiliated unions, the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) and the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), as they continuously defend their democracy and freedom.
“Democracy and fundamental rights are non-negotiable,” stated Yoshida. “We stand united with the international labour movement in demanding respect for the rule of law and remaining vigilant in protecting democracy in South Korea.”
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