U.S. was not notified in advance about martial law declaration in South Korea

The U.S. government stated on November 3 that it was not informed in advance about South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council (NSC) responded to a query from the Korea JoongAng Daily, saying, “The U.S. administration is in contact with the South Korean government and is closely monitoring the situation,” adding, “We are working to gather more detailed information.” The spokesperson emphasized, “The U.S. was not notified in advance about this declaration. We are gravely concerned about the ongoing situation in South Korea.”

President Joe Biden, who is currently visiting Angola, addressed questions from reporters regarding South Korea’s martial law declaration, stating, “I was just briefed on the situation,” but added that he had not yet received detailed reports on developments overnight.

During a press briefing, Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The U.S. was not given prior notice about South Korea’s martial law declaration. We are gathering as much information as possible and closely monitoring the situation on the ground. Ultimately, we hope this issue will be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law.”

Regarding the South Korean National Assembly’s resolution to lift martial law, Patel remarked, “While I am not an expert on South Korean laws or legislative processes, it is our hope and expectation that a country’s laws and rules will be upheld, including the recent resolution passed by the South Korean National Assembly to lift martial law.”

He further confirmed that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had been briefed on the situation and is closely monitoring developments.

Kurt Campbell, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, also commented on the issue during an event in Washington, D.C., related to the 2025 Osaka Expo. “We are observing the situation in South Korea with serious concern,” Campbell said. “We are seeking communication with the South Korean side at all levels.” He underscored the strength of the U.S.-South Korea alliance, stating, “During times of uncertainty, we stand firmly with South Korea. We hope and expect that all political disputes will be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law.”

As tensions remain high in South Korea, the U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to its ally while urging a lawful and peaceful resolution to the unfolding crisis.

BY KIM HYOUNG-GU  [kim.hyounggu@joongang.co.kr]