In a dramatic turn that rocked the Korean peninsula’s political landscape, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol dropped a bombshell late Tuesday evening local time by declaring “emergency martial law,” setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown in one of Asia’s key democracies, according to AP.

During a televized address, Yoon vowed to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order,” while painting his opposition as North Korea sympathizers who are paralyzing the government.

The political drama intensified as even Yoon’s own party chief, Han Dong-hoon, broke ranks and branded the decision “wrong,” promising to “stop it with the people.” Meanwhile, opposition heavyweight Lee Jae-myung, who nearly clinched the presidency in 2022, swiftly condemned Yoon’s move as “illegal and unconstitutional.”

“Through this martial law, I will rebuild and protect the free Republic of Korea, which is falling into the depths of national ruin,” Yoon declared in his broadcast, asking citizens to stomach “some inconveniences” while he “normalizes” the country.

Yoon’s administration has been grappling with multiple challenges, including a parliament controlled by the opposition Democratic Party and declining approval ratings. The political gridlock has particularly manifested in battles over next year’s budget and attempts by the opposition to impeach three senior prosecutors. Yoon has also been deflecting calls for independent probes into scandals involving his wife and top officials.

The Democratic Party has reportedly convened an emergency session in response to his announcement.

The implications of this martial law declaration for South Korea‘s governance and democratic institutions remain unclear as the political standoff unfolds.

South Korea is known for its vibrant entertainment industry with the world keenly anticipating Season 2 of Netflix’s global hit series “Squid Game,” which is due over Christmas.