South Korea Issues Martial Law No. 1, Implementing Nationwide Restrictions

On December 3, 2024, the South Korean Military Command issued Martial Law Order No. 1, announcing the implementation of several measures nationwide starting at 11 PM that evening. These measures include prohibiting all political activities by the National Assembly, local assemblies, political parties, and political organizations, banning actions that deny the free democratic system or attempt to subvert it, as well as the dissemination of false news and incitement. All speech and publications will be controlled by the Martial Law Command, and strikes, work slowdowns, and gatherings that provoke social unrest are prohibited. All medical workers, including interns and residents, must return to their posts within 48 hours, or they will face penalties under martial law. The daily lives of ordinary citizens will be kept as convenient as possible. Violators of the martial law may be arrested, detained, confiscated, and searched according to Articles 9 and 14 of the South Korean Martial Law, without the need for an arrest warrant.