South Korean president's late-night power move leads to dramatic parliament showdown
South Korean leader declared martial law causing immediate nation-wide protests and urgent parliament meeting. Opposition members had to find creative ways to enter voting chamber while police blocked access
President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea made a shocking late-nite TV announcement declaring emergency martial law - a move that brought back memories of the countrys dark past with military rule
The six-hour drama started when the deeply un-popular leader went on TV to blame opposition for anti-state behavior; his decision triggered nation-wide protests (with thousands of people rushing to the National Assembly building)
The police made a tight circle around the parliament building but opposition law-makers werent stopped: some even had to climb thru windows to join an emergency voting session - showing how quick things can change in modern-day politics
The opposition is engaging in antistate activities that threaten our democracy
The whole situation reminded many citizens of the times they thought were long gone - the military control period that ended in late 1980s; now people stood outside parliament demanding to keep democratic values alive
