What is happening in South Korea? Why was martial law declared in South Korea? Is North Korea involved?

WHAT IS HAPPENING IN SOUTH KOREA?

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced on Tuesday that he had declared martial law, accusing the country's opposition of controlling parliament, being pro-North Korean, and rendering the government dysfunctional through anti-state activities.

'I WILL NEUTRALIZE ANTI-STATE FORCES'

In his televised address, Yoon emphasized that this decision was vital for protecting South Korea's constitutional order.

Yoon stated, "I am declaring emergency martial law to defend a free South Korea against threats posed by North Korea's communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements. This step is inevitable to protect the sustainability of the country from plans aimed at the freedom and safety of citizens and leaving a stable country for future generations. I will return the country to normalcy as soon as possible by neutralizing anti-state forces."

ALL SECURITY FORCES ON HIGH ALERT

Following the declaration of martial law, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun held an emergency meeting with top military commanders later that day. In a brief statement, the Ministry of National Defense reported that the minister had gathered military leaders from across the country and instructed all security forces to move to a high alert level.

WHAT DID THE OPPOSITION LEADER SAY?

Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung said in a statement that Yoon had declared martial law against the public in an illegal and unconstitutional manner.

WON LOSES VALUE

Following the developments, the South Korean currency, the won, fell to its lowest level against the dollar in 2 years.