The UK Foreign Office has issued an alert for travellers following the declaration of martial law in South Korea on Tuesday (December 3).
Updated FCDO advice says: “We are aware of the developing situation following a declaration of martial law in South Korea. This has now been lifted.
“Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid large public gatherings. Demonstrations are expected in the areas around Gwanghwamun, the Presidential Office (Samgakji) and the National Assembly (Yeouido).”
The BBC reported that the president of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, declared martial law in an unannounced late-night television address.
Less than two hours later, with 190 of its 300 members present, South Korea’s parliament voted down the measure and ruled the martial law order invalid.
Yoon announced he would lift the martial law order after lawmakers unanimously rejected his decree, just hours after his unexpected announcement on Tuesday.
Large crowds had gathered outside the South Korean National Assembly, where a line of police officers guarded the entrance gate to the building.
Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West said: “The UK is deeply concerned by the events in South Korea on 3rd of December.
“Our embassy in Seoul continues to monitor developments and is in touch with the Korean authorities.
“We call for a peaceful resolution to the situation, in accordance with the law and the constitution of the Republic of Korea.
“British nationals in South Korea should continue to monitor and follow FCDO travel advice.”
• Elsewhere, the FCDO has said a 30-day state of emergency (SOE) in Ecuador was renewed on December 2 “due to internal disturbance and armed violence”.
The advisory lists the province affected by the SOE, which allows the military and police to seize assets, conduct inspections and enter private properties without permission.