South Koreas Parliament Passes Revision Rules Governing Martial Law 2025 07 03
ReutersJUL 7
South Korea Revises Martial Law Rules
Above: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung speaks at the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on June 26, 2025. Image copyright: SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
South Korea’s new martial law reforms are a powerful rebuke to Yoon Suk Yeol’s authoritarian power grab — and a vindication of democratic resilience. By banning military intrusion, demanding transparency, and punishing violators, lawmakers have fortified constitutional safeguards after citizens and legislators united to overturn Yoon’s December decree. These changes honor the legacy of Gwangju and close the door on future coups disguised as national defense.
Government-critical narrative
President Lee Jae-myung’s 30-day “victory lap” press conference shows exactly what’s wrong with this administration: self-praise over substance. While prices soar and security falters, Lee dodges hard questions and offers no serious plan. His talk of “restoring democracy” masks a government more concerned with optics than outcomes — the public deserves leadership, not theatrics.