A look at the context behind South Korea’s shocking martial law edict

Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — It may seem that the wild scenes in Seoul, with hundreds of armed troops and frantic lawmakers storming South Korea’s parliament building after the president suddenly declared martial law, came out of nowhere. But the chaotic events overnight Tuesday into Wednesday should be seen in the context of South Korea’s recent tumultuous political and social history. These moments resonate with South Koreans in their daily lives, and as they look to understand the president’s short-lived declaration of emergency martial law, even if there’s still widespread confusion and anger over his decision.