Washington: The United States is closely monitoring the unfolding events in South Korea with "grave concern," as expressed by Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell. The U.S. government is particularly focused on ensuring that political disputes in South Korea are resolved "peacefully" and adhere to the "rule of law." According to Yonhap News Agency, Campbell's comments followed the declaration of emergency martial law by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. The President has accused the opposition of engaging in "anti-state activities," which have led to significant political tensions in the country. Campbell emphasized the strong alliance between the United States and South Korea, stating, "We're watching the recent developments in the ROK with grave concern." He further mentioned the U.S.'s efforts in maintaining open lines of communication with South Korean officials, both in Washington and Seoul, to stay informed as the situation progresses. Reassuring the commitment of the U.S. to its ally, Campbel l remarked, "We stand by Korea in their time of uncertainty." He also expressed the U.S. government's hope that the political disputes in South Korea would be resolved without violence and in compliance with legal norms. The declaration of martial law by President Yoon followed the opposition Democratic Party's actions in the parliamentary budget committee, where they passed a reduced budget bill and submitted impeachment motions against high-ranking officials, including a state auditor and the chief prosecutor.