South Korea's declaration of martial law could have 'serious implications,' warns military expert

The military expert's comments came after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced emergency martial law, citing threats from communist forces and the need to eliminate "anti-state elements".

In a televised address to the nation, President Yoon declared the measure was necessary to "safeguard a liberal South Korea from the threats posed by North Korea's communist forces".

Speaking to GB News, Crawford said: "I've been desperately searching to find out if there's any additional information about why martial law might have been declared. I can find none.

"Other than the rather bland statement which has been put out by the South Korean government.

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"It's highly unlikely that this is anything to do with North Korean troops crossing the border and invading South Korea. It's possible that it's something to do with malign elements inside South Korea, promoted by North Korea agitating.

"It could be the South Korean president trying to prevent some sort of coup happening against him."

He added: "There's some turmoil going on with perhaps serious implications.

"In the fullness of time we'll get a better understanding of this. But at the moment it seems very confused and we'll just have to see how it pans out."

The dramatic announcement comes amid heightened tensions between North and South Korea, which have technically remained in a state of war since 1953.

The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has also been a source of concern in Seoul, according to reports.

President Yoon accused the opposition of anti-state activities, claiming their conduct had paralysed government administration.

The move comes as Yoon's conservative People Power Party remains locked in an impasse with the liberal opposition Democratic Party over next year's budget bill.

The president has also faced criticism for dismissing calls for independent investigations into scandals involving his wife and top officials.

The Democratic Party reportedly called an emergency meeting of its legislators following the announcement.

Since taking office in 2022, President Yoon has faced significant challenges in advancing his agenda against an opposition-controlled parliament.

His approval ratings have seen a decline in recent months amid ongoing political tensions.

President Yoon has stated his intention to "rebuild a free and democratic country through martial law".

However, with constitutional challenges emerging and political tensions escalating, the situation continues to develop rapidly.