Chinese state-controlled media have closely monitored and reported on South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s recent declaration and later lifting of martial law. An official social media platform under Xinhua News Agency, called ‘New Tanqin’, offered an interpretation suggesting that Yoon declared martial law out of anger at the opposition attacking his wife, Kim Keon-hee. The platform published an analytical piece titled “Ten Key Questions Regarding the Overnight Change in South Korea” and remarked that the entire situation was shocking. It further speculated that President Yoon’s martial law declaration might be influenced by his frustration with opposition parties persistently targeting his wife.
The piece included commentary as if declaring that being willing to become an enemy of the world for a loved one isn’t just a theme found in novels or movies. It likened the situation to a coup and expressed shock that the President himself would initiate such an action.
Additionally, New Tanqin examined the specifics of the martial law declaration, quoting parts of ‘Proclamation No. 1’ issued by Park An-soo, the appointed martial law commander, which restricted activities of the parliament, local councils, political parties, and gatherings. The media outlet predicted that this is a precarious moment for President Yoon, suggesting he might face impeachment or be compelled to resign, with a consequential outcome leading to jail time.
Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) opined that by declaring martial law, President Yoon has effectively ended his political career. Citing a political science professor from Seoul National University, the SCMP noted that Yoon has lost all presidential authority and it would be challenging for him to complete his term.