South Korea's Defense Ministry said martial law imposed by President Yun Seok-yul would remain in place until he formally lifted it, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition and deepened political tensions in the country.

South Korea's parliament has sent a formal notice to the president and the defense ministry demanding that martial law be lifted immediately. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung called the president's order illegal, calling on police and the military not to obey orders related to its implementation.

"Martial law must be lifted and security forces must return to their original positions," — he said after the parliamentary session.

Opposition Revive Korea Party Chairman Cho Guk stressed that the president's disobedience to the parliamentary decision could be considered a crime. He also called for an investigation into the legality of Yun Seok-yul's actions, stressing the need to hold him accountable if violations are found.

The situation remains tense. Vice Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok said the South Korean government was taking steps to minimize the economic impact of martial law, especially on the country's financial and currency markets. However, access to the presidential office is restricted, and Yun Seok-yeol himself has so far refrained from commenting.

Experts warn that the crisis in South Korea could escalate into deep political destabilization, especially if parliament and the president continue to stand off against each other.