South Korea’s parliament has approved legislation designed to tighten safeguards around any future martial law declaration, a move prompted by the political fallout from last December’s brief and controversial order by impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The bill would require parliamentary approval before a president can impose martial law, strengthening checks on executive power after a period of deep institutional strain. Lawmakers acted as public confidence in democratic safeguards remained under pressure following the one-night crisis that shocked the country.

The vote reflects a broader push in South Korea to prevent a repeat of the disruption caused when Yoon’s decision triggered a national backlash, impeachment proceedings, and intensified scrutiny of the presidency. Supporters say the reform is aimed at protecting civilian rule and reinforcing democratic oversight.

The measure still reflects the political consequences of the December episode, which raised alarm among critics who warned that emergency powers can be abused without robust legal constraints. By moving to codify parliamentary control, lawmakers are seeking to make it harder for any future leader to bypass democratic institutions during a crisis.