South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected declaration of emergency martial law has drawn renewed interest in the 2024 film 12.12: The Day, with many drawing parallels between the real-life event and the movie’s plot
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On Wednesday, Yoon announced lifting the martial law during a live broadcast from the presidential office in Yongsan at 4:27 AM, just six hours after declaring the emergency at 10:25 PM the previous evening.
Martial law is a measure typically reserved for situations where the government struggles to maintain order, such as during coups, civil unrest, or natural disasters. It often requires legislative approval and involves mobilizing military forces to restore stability.
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Yoon explained that the decision to declare emergency martial law at 11 PM came as a result of his determination to protect the country from anti-state forces seeking to paralyze government functions and destabilize South Korea’s democratic constitutional order.However, he ordered the withdrawal of military forces involved in emergency operations in response to a call from the National Assembly to lift the emergency. The government convened a Cabinet meeting at 4:30 AM to approve the decision to lift the state of emergency.
The dramatic sequence of events sparked significant discussion online, with many comparing it to 12.12: The Day. ome international viewers even referred to it as a “sequel” to the film.
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12.12: The Day is a historical drama based on the 1979 military coup and South Korea’s subsequent democratization movement. It highlights the citizens’ fight for democracy amid the political turbulence of the 1980s, with martial law and its consequences playing a central role. Released on November 22th, 2023, the film was a massive box office success, attracting over 13 million viewers and solidifying its position as one of Korea’s top blockbusters.
>> ‘12.12: The Day’ Gets North American Digital Release
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The movie received critical acclaim, winning four major awards at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (played by Hwang Jung Min), Best Editing, and Most Popular Film. Its powerful depiction of martial law underscores the significance of democracy and civil resistance, themes that resonate strongly amid South Korea’s current political climate, where issues of security and civil liberties remain contentious.
In a related story, Jung Woo Sung, who played Lee Tae Shin, the commander who resists authoritarian forces in 12.12: The Day, has recently been at the center of personal controversy. On November 24th, Jung publicly acknowledged fathering a child with Moon Ga Bi.
Jung addressed the situation at the Blue Dragon Film Awards, saying, “I deeply regret disappointing those who have supported me. I humbly accept all criticism and will take full responsibility. As a father, I am committed to fulfilling my duties to my son.”
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