What was the explanation?

In a dramatic late-night emergency televised address to the nation, Yoon announced he would impose martial law in South Korea as he accused the opposition of trying to paralyze the government through “anti-state activities.”

A six-point decree from the new martial law commander, army chief General Park An-su, quickly followed: banning political activities and parties, “false propaganda,” strikes and “gatherings that foment social unrest.”

The order also placed all media under martial law authority and ordered all medical personnel, including striking doctors, to return to work within 48 hours.

The president’s move was reminiscent of an era of authoritarian leaders that the country had not seen since the 1980s. This was immediately denounced by the opposition and the leader of Yoon’s own party.

Yoon said he was acting to protect his country’s liberal democracy from “subversive elements” and “threats from North Korea” – but gave few details.

Although unexpected, the announcement came amid a simmering budget dispute between Yoon and the opposition Democratic Party.

The opposition cut around 4.1 trillion won ($2.8 billion) from Yoon’s proposed 677 trillion won budget for next year, prompting the president to complain that “all major budgets that “essential for the country’s core functions” would be cut.

What happened in Parliament?

Security forces locked down the National Assembly, helicopters landed on the roof and troops briefly entered the building, apparently to prevent lawmakers from entering.

But 190 MPs were able to enter and voted unanimously to reject Yoon’s declaration and call for the lifting of martial law.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in front of parliament, many of whom chanted for Yoon’s arrest. Some protesters clashed with troops, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or major property damage. At least one window was broken as troops tried to enter the assembly building. A woman tried unsuccessfully to grab the rifle away from one of the soldiers while screaming, “Aren’t you embarrassed?”

Why did Yoon back out?

According to South Korea’s constitution, the parliamentary vote to lift martial law must be respected.

Military officials initially said that despite the vote, martial law would remain in effect until Yoon himself lifted it.

But the opposition was united across political lines. The leader of Yoon’s conservative People Power party called the decision to impose martial law “wrong.” Lee Jae-myung, the opposition leader who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election, said Yoon’s announcement was “illegal and unconstitutional.” South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party under Lee called the president’s move “essentially a coup.”

Six hours after martial law was declared, Yoon said troops would return to their barracks and the order would be lifted after a Cabinet meeting.

What was the international reaction?

The White House said it was “relieved” that Yoon changed course on his declaration of martial law. “Democracy is the foundation of the U.S.-South Korea alliance, and we will continue to monitor the situation,” a spokesman said, referring to South Korea by the initials of its official name, the Republic of Korea.

The United States had previously said it was watching with “great concern” events in its key Asian ally, where it has stationed 28,500 troops to protect against North Korea.

What’s the feeling on the streets and what’s next?

Raphael Rashid, reporting from Seoul for the Guardian, writes that there was a sense of confusion and sadness in South Korea the morning after the coup. “For the older generation who fought on the streets against military dictatorships, martial law is synonymous with dictatorship, not 21st century Korea. The younger generation is embarrassed that he has ruined their country’s reputation. People are at a loss.

“Also, everyone is wondering what his end goal was. Expedited impeachment is on everyone’s lips. From politics, Yoon faces calls to resign or be impeached.”

Politically, the pressure on Yoon has only increased after his nightly bombing.

South Korea’s main opposition party called for Yoon’s resignation and accused him of “insurrection.”

The country’s largest trade union group also called for an “indefinite general strike” until he resigns over the “irrational and anti-democratic measure”.

Yoon’s own People Power Party called his attempt to impose martial law “tragic” and called for those involved to be held accountable.