CNN
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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an unannounced late-night televised address on Tuesday, accusing the country’s main opposition party of pro-North Korea sympathies and anti-state activities.

Yoon did not say what specific measures would be taken. He cited a motion by the opposition Democratic Party, which has a majority in parliament, to indict top prosecutors and reject a government budget proposal.

Yoon described the opposition’s actions as “clearly subversive behavior aimed at inciting rebellion.” He further claimed that these acts had “paralyzed state affairs and turned the National Assembly into a den of criminals.”

He described martial law as a necessary measure to eradicate these “shameless pro-North anti-state forces.” He justified the decision with the need to protect people’s freedoms and security, ensure the sustainability of the country and leave a stable nation for future generations.

According to local broadcaster YTN TV, the Speaker is traveling to Parliament and plans to call a session. However, Yonhap News Agency reported that the entrance to parliament was blocked and MPs were not allowed to enter.

Yoon accused the opposition of turning the nation into a “drug haven” and creating a state of disorder that endangers public safety and livelihoods. He also said the Democratic Party is trying to overthrow the liberal democratic system, stating: “The National Assembly has become a monster undermining liberal democracy, and the nation is in a precarious state and on the verge of collapse. “

He assured the public: “We will eliminate the anti-state forces and return the country to normality as quickly as possible.” While he acknowledged that martial law could cause some inconveniences, he promised efforts to minimize its impact on the public to keep as possible.

This is a developing story and will be updated.