South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared martial law in the country, accusing the opposition of anti-state activities and planning a rebellion.

The South Korean president made the statement on Yonhap Television News.

“Martial law is aimed at eradicating pro-North Korean forces and protecting constitutional order and freedom,” Yoon stated in his televised address.

The decision to impose martial law was made after the opposition Democratic Party passed a cut budget bill through the parliamentary budget committee and filed impeachment petitions against the state auditor and the attorney general.

According to the South Korean president, the Democratic Party is trying to overthrow the liberal democratic system, and the nation is in an unstable state, teetering on the brink of collapse.

It is also reported that the country’s Ministry of National Defense has ordered a meeting of the highest military command and put the troops on high alert.

In addition, the National Defense Ministry issued a decree prohibiting any political activity during martial law, including protests and political parties.

The decree also establishes control over all media and publishing houses. Violators of martial law can be arrested or subjected to searches without a warrant.

CNN details that Yoon Suk Yeol called martial law a necessary measure and justified this decision by protecting the freedom and security of citizens.

“We will eliminate anti-state forces and return the country to normal life as soon as possible,” he declared.

While acknowledging that martial law may cause some inconvenience, Yun promised to make efforts to minimize its impact on the population.