Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung announced on Wednesday his decision to designate December 3 as a day for celebrating the people's sovereignty in South Korea. This declaration marks the anniversary of the nation's successful overcoming of a martial law crisis that plunged South Korea into turmoil one year ago, showcasing the country's democratic resilience on the global stage.
According to Yonhap News Agency, in a special national address commemorating the one-year anniversary of the short-lived martial law imposition, President Lee emphasized the significance of defeating an "unjust power" through nonviolent means. He stated that this peaceful triumph has made the South Korean people deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize. Describing the event as the "revolution of light," Lee highlighted it as a unique moment in history where a coup attempt was thwarted by unarmed citizens.
President Lee remarked on the irony of the failed December 3 coup, noting that it became an opportunity for South Korea to demonstrate its high level of civic consciousness and democratic resilience to the world. He announced that the government, emerging from this "revolution of light," will officially designate December 3 as National Sovereignty Day to honor the courageous actions of the South Korean people. In a subsequent press conference, Lee mentioned that the government plans to recognize this day as a public holiday.
The martial law crisis unfolded on December 3 of the previous year when then-President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing government dysfunction allegedly caused by the opposition and the need to protect the constitutional order from pro-North Korea forces. This decree was rapidly overturned by the National Assembly within three hours, leading to Yoon formally lifting the martial law declaration later that day. Despite its brief duration, the failed imposition of martial law led to months of political repercussions, creating a leadership vacuum and halting state affairs.
President Lee reiterated his belief that the South Korean people are fully deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize for their unprecedented and peaceful resolution of a democracy crisis. He expressed hope that this recognition would serve as a turning point for nations grappling with conflict and division. Furthermore, Lee stressed the importance of holding those responsible for the martial law imposition accountable as a foundation for justice-based unity. He vowed to work with the South Korean people to ensure that the revolution of light is fully realized, promising to build a nation where sovereignty is protected and coups are unimaginable.