The United States announced on Tuesday that it is “closely” monitoring the situation in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of emergency martial law. A spokesperson from the White House’s National Security Council confirmed that the US is in contact with the South Korean government and keeping a close watch on developments.
The US has around 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, mainly to defend the country from North Korea. Washington and Seoul have long conducted joint military exercises, which have angered North Korea, viewing them as rehearsals for invasion. These tensions have led to regular North Korean weapons tests in retaliation. US President Joe Biden has also strengthened ties between the US, South Korea, and Japan, aiming to counter threats from both North Korea and China.
President Yoon declared martial law to protect South Korea from “communist forces” amid a political standoff over the country’s budget bill. He accused the opposition party of stalling governance for political gain, which he said jeopardized the nation’s safety. Yoon’s remarks described the opposition party as “anti-state forces” and blamed them for cutting vital funding for national security, including efforts to combat drug crimes and maintain public safety.
Yoon stated that his decision to declare martial law was necessary to restore order and protect the country’s democratic system. He vowed to eliminate “anti-state forces” and restore normalcy in South Korea.
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