Guardian

Rightwing president backs down after most serious challenge to country’s democracy since 1980s

South Korea’s rightwing president has been forced to back down after he unexpectedly declared martial law only to face unanimous opposition from the national assembly, in the most serious challenge to the country’s democracy since the 1980s.

President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late on Tuesday amid a dispute with opposition parties he accused of pro-North Korean sympathies and anti-state activities.

But after some of the tensest hours in the country’s recent history, Yoon said troops would return to their barracks and the order would be lifted following a cabinet meeting.