South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol gave an emergency address from his office in Seoul declaring a state of emergency. He said the measure was necessary to eliminate “anti-national forces” that he said were threatening the country’s stability and undermining its free constitutional order.

Yun Seok-yeol stressed that the introduction of martial law is a necessary step to protect national interests and prevent the destruction of the Republic of Korea.

"The free Republic of Korea must be restored and defended. We must ensure that our country is passed on to the next generation intact and safe." - said the president.

He added that the main goal of these actions is to ensure freedom, security and sustainable development of the state.

The President also noted that martial law could create inconvenience for citizens, but promised to make every effort to minimize its impact on everyday life.

"I sincerely ask people to trust me. Only with your support can we protect the freedom of our country."- he said.

In his address, Yun Seok-yeol emphasized that the introduction of martial law is aimed not only at protecting domestic order, but also at preserving South Korea's role in the international community.

The decision to impose martial law has caused a wide resonance within the country. Opposition forces have called the measures excessive and accused the president of trying to use the threat of "pro-North Korean forces" to strengthen his power.