North Korea has strongly condemned South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s short-lived martial law declaration, describing it as an “insane” act reminiscent of military dictatorship. In an editorial published on December 6 in Rodong Sinmun, the state-run newspaper, Pyongyang accused Yoon of attempting a "military coup" and running a fascist regime. The North’s harsh words follow a week of political chaos in South Korea, where Yoon’s authority is under increasing scrutiny, as reported by BBC.

The martial law announcement came amid protests over his leadership, with Yoon claiming that North Korea sympathisers were attempting to destabilise his government. The declaration, which lasted just six hours, saw troops being mobilised and the National Assembly temporarily sealed off, sparking fears of a growing authoritarian shift. North Korea wasted no time in seizing on the turmoil, criticising the South Korean president for his “desperation” and accusing him of wielding power through fear.

The article went further, suggesting that Yoon’s actions highlighted the "weakness" of South Korean society, portraying his government as unraveling. “He brazenly brandished guns at his own people,” the piece read, a sharp criticism of his use of military force to quell dissent. The publication also included images of protests in Seoul, featuring South Korean youth holding up signs and K-pop light sticks, symbols of the ongoing resistance to Yoon’s leadership.

While Yoon remains in office, his political future appears uncertain. His martial law declaration has not only led to widespread protests but also an investigation into whether his actions amounted to treason. Although an impeachment motion was blocked by members of his own People Power Party, the opposition Democratic Party is pressing on with efforts to remove him from power. A new impeachment vote is being prepared for December 14, though it remains unclear whether they can secure the necessary two-thirds majority in the 300-seat National Assembly.

Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law has left South Korea in a precarious position. With mounting domestic unrest and questions over his leadership, the spectre of instability looms large. Meanwhile, North Korea, which often seeks to capitalise on South Korea’s political weaknesses, may be watching closely, ready to take advantage of any further cracks in Seoul’s government.