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SOUTH Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government lifted the “emergency martial law” that he imposed after lawmakers voted against it.

The martial law lasted only for six hours after 190 lawmakers in parliament unanimously voted to block the martial law Yoon declared.

Yoon said the martial law declaration was to foil “anti-state” forces as he struggled against the opposition, who he believed is sympathizing with communist North Korea.

During a televised speech, Yoon said he would “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order."

While martial is imposed, “special measures” will also be implemented to restrict the freedom of the press, and political activities, among others.

However, just hours after the declaration of the said decree, 190 from the 300 members of the ruling and opposition parties passed a resolution blocking the martial law.

National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik said the move was meant “to protect democracy with the people."

Yoon’s declaration prompted others to call for him to be ousted as the country’s president.

“Even if martial law is lifted, he cannot avoid treason charges. It was clearly revealed to the entire nation that President Yoon could no longer run the country normally. He should step down," senior DP member of parliament Park Chan-dae said

Protesters also gathered at the National Assembly parliament, waving banners and call to impeach Yoon who has been in office since 2022.

The crowd chanted “Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol” and “Trash Yoon Suk Yeol,”, calling him to resign or face impeachment.

TV footage also showed police personnel and soldiers carrying rifles in front of the National Assembly to block those protesters who tried to enter the building.

Under South Korea’s constitution, the President must oblige once there’s a demand in the National Assembly to lift the martial with a majority vote, a report by CBS News stated.(LAO)

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