SEOUL, Dec. 3 (UPI) — South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday praised citizens for peacefully resisting last year’s martial law declaration, saying the Korean people deserve the Nobel Peace Prize for demonstrating to the world the resilience of the country’s democracy.
Speaking on the first anniversary of what he called the “revolution of light,” Lee commemorated the dramatic events of Dec. 3, 2024, when then-President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an attempt that was swiftly thwarted by lawmakers and citizens.
“It was the first time in the 21st century that a self-coup occurred in a democracy like South Korea,” Lee said in a national address delivered from the presidential office. “But it was also the first time in world history that the coup was prevented peacefully and beautifully by unarmed people.”
The crisis began on the night of Dec. 3, 2024, when Yoon declared emergency martial law, citing threats from what he called “shameless pro-North Korea anti-state forces that are plundering the freedom and happiness of our people.”
Some 190 lawmakers reached the National Assembly in the early morning hours and voted to overturn the decree, which was then formally lifted by Yoon during a Cabinet meeting.
Police stand in front of the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on Dec. 4, 2024, shortly after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
The entire episode lasted only around six hours, but the shockwaves were felt for months as the country struggled through a leadership vacuum and heightened political polarization during protracted impeachment hearings. Yoon was finally removed from office on Apr. 4 after a unanimous Supreme Court decision upheld his impeachment.
Lee recalled how citizens rushed to the National Assembly building when martial law was declared, blocking armored vehicles and helping lawmakers scale walls to enter the legislative chamber. He praised those who kept vigil through the night to prevent a potential second martial law declaration.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung praised citizens who rushed to the National Assembly in the middle of the night last December to protest after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
“I am convinced that the Korean people, who peacefully overcame an unprecedented crisis in world history, are truly worthy of receiving the Nobel Peace Prize,” Lee said.
He described the crisis as an opportunity for South Korea to show the remarkable resilience of its democracy to the international community.
Massive protests calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ouster grew in the days and weeks after his martial law attempt. Yoon was impeached on Dec. 14, 2024. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
“The people transformed the worst moment triggered by an illegal coup into the best moment not with violence but with dance and song,” he said.
Lee announced plans to designate Dec. 3 as “National Sovereignty Day” to commemorate the defense of constitutional order and democracy. In a press conference after his address, he said the government aims to make the day a national holiday.
Protesters celebrate near the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on Dec. 14, 2024 after Yoon was impeached for his martial law attempt by a vote of 204-85. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
Former President Yoon is currently on trial for insurrection and other charges that could carry life imprisonment or the death penalty if convicted.
Several other criminal proceedings related to the martial law attempt are underway. Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo faces charges in a trial expected to reach a verdict in January that will be closely watched as the first determination of whether the events legally constitute insurrection.
Supporters of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol held rallies to protest his impeachment hearings. Yoon was removed from office by the Supreme Court on Apr. 4. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, former National Police Agency Commissioner General Cho Ji-ho and former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min are among those also facing insurrection-related charges in ongoing trials.
Addressing the legal proceedings, Lee said those responsible for the martial law imposition must be held accountable for the county to move forward.
“Strict punishment of those who participated in the coup is just the beginning,” Lee said. “To create a nation where no one can even dream of a coup again and a nation where no one can threaten the light of popular sovereignty, a just unity is essential.”
Lee noted the international attention South Korea has received since the crisis, saying world leaders he has met have expressed high interest and great expectations for the country.
“In an era of uncertainty where democracy is threatened and the world order is rapidly changing, the world is paying attention to the great courage and determination shown by our people,” Lee said. “South Korea is currently writing world history.”
