We condemn President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law during a time of peace, labeling it unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and assembly. Despite no war or national emergency justifying martial law, the government has deployed military forces to block access to the National Assembly and restrict political activities, infringing on the Constitution.
President Yoon justified the move by accusing opposition parties of anti-state activities, citing their attempts to impeach officials and cut the budget. However, the declaration is seen as an authoritarian tactic to suppress dissent and silence criticism. Critics argue that the move reflects the government’s failure to address economic struggles and public discontent, instead resorting to military control to stifle freedoms.
The proclamation imposes harsh restrictions on political activities, media, and public gatherings while enabling arrests without warrants. Observers highlight that the government had been suspected of planning this, despite earlier denials. The statement warns that this action will accelerate the administration’s downfall, urging an immediate repeal of the martial law, as citizens will not tolerate the erosion of democracy and human rights.
Signatories
Activists group for Human Rights BARAM
Center for Media Responsibility and Human Rights
Cultural Action
Human Rights Movement Space ‘Hwal’
Korean Progressive Network Jinbonet
National Union of Media Workers,
South Korean NGOs Coalition for Law Enforcement Watch
Open Net Korea
People’s Coalition for Media Reform
Post BlackList
The Center for Freedom of Information
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