section_path: Declaration of martial law
section_name: Declaration of martial law
paragraph_text: Declaration of martial law
  
  On 3 December 2024, Yoon declared martial law and vowed to "rebuild a democratic and free Korea" after accusing other South Korean politicians of being "communist". As part of this, Yoon and Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-hyun allegedly ordered the flying of drones into North Korea to provoke an armed conflict between the two countries, without the knowledge of the Ministry of National Defense or the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The decree was soon declared invalid by the National Assembly in a unanimous vote of 190–0; however, the military command stated that it would remain in place until the president lifted it. Hours after the National Assembly voted to rescind martial law, Yoon complied and lifted the declaration after his cabinet convened.
  
  On 7 December 2024, Yoon issued an apology in a televised address following widespread criticism over his declaration of martial law. He expressed regret for the decision and assured the public that such actions would not be repeated. The incident has led to political turmoil, with opposition leaders and some ruling party members calling for his resignation. On 8 December, Kim Yong-hyun was arrested for his role in the martial law order, after resigning from office three days prior.
  
  Subsequent investigations revealed that President Yoon ordered Commander Kwak, and Capital Defense Commander Lee Jin-woo to break through the plenary chamber doors to drag the lawmakers out at 00:40 to 00:50 hours, which was too late as the lawmakers had begun the session to end martial law at that time. In the indictment of former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun on 27 December by the special prosecution team, it also revealed Yoon told Commander Lee, "break down the doors, even if it means shooting" and "even if martial law is lifted, I just have to declare martial law two or three times, so keep going." Minister Kim also prioritized the arrests and detention of Lee Jae-myung, Woo Won-shik, and Han Dong-hoon from the National Assembly.
  
  On 9 December 2024, the Ministry of Justice issued an overseas travel ban against Yoon following an investigation into allegations of rebellion linked to his brief imposition of martial law. A senior officer from the National Police Agency stated that Yoon could have faced detention if specific conditions were met. Although sitting South Korean presidents are generally immune from prosecution while in office, this immunity does not extend to accusations of rebellion or treason, leaving Yoon vulnerable to legal action over these serious charges.
  
  On 11 December 2024, South Korean police attempted to search Yoon's office as part of an investigation into his controversial declaration of martial law. The search was blocked as investigators failed to reach an agreement with the presidential security service.
  
  Despite being suspended from public duties, Yoon will receive a 3 percent increase of about 7.5 million won to his salary compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Personnel Management.