WASHINGTON, Dec 4 (KUNA) -- The US welcomed North Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's decision to rescind the order declaring emergency martial law in accordance with the country's constitution.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement late Tuesday, "We continue to expect political disagreements to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law." He continued, "We reaffirm our support for the people of Korea and the US-ROK alliance based on shared principles of democracy and the rule of law." President Yoon had declared martial law in a surprise late-night address on Tuesday, reviving memories of a more painful, authoritarian past as troops attempted to enter the main hall of the National Assembly and people against the measure gathered outside following his announcement.
The president accused the main opposition party of sympathizing with North Korea and of anti-state activities, citing a motion by the opposition Democratic Party, which has a majority in parliament, to impeach top prosecutors and reject a government budget proposal.
The Parliament rejected the decision by voting on a law to suspend martial law, in an emergency session attended by 190 of its 300 member. (end) asj.ahm