President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law on December 3. After the National Assembly voted to revoke the decree, martial law was lifted approximately six hours later. Comments later flooded YouTube under a particular dramatic video with comments like “I went back to watching it after hearing about martial law.”
The drama in question is “The Fifth Republic”. This 41-episode series aired on MBC from April 23 to September 11, 2005.
The first episode focused on the October 26 incident when KCIA chief Kim Jae-gyu assassinated President Park Chung-hee. He went on to describe significant historical events such as Chun Doo-hwan’s rise to power, the Gwangju Democratization Movement (May 18), and more.
In one episode, martial law is declared following the October 26 incident, with General Jeong Seung-hwa appointed martial law commander.
Actors Lee Deok-hwa, who played former President Chun Doo-hwan, and Seo In-seok, who played former President Roh Tae-woo, were praised for their brilliant performances.
The supporting and minor actors were also chosen to closely resemble the historical characters, impressing viewers with their accuracy and exceptional acting. The drama is remembered for its incredible “synchronization”, capturing not only the appearance of historical figures but also their ways of speaking.
The film “12.12: The Day,” which also focuses on the 12/12 military coup, was considered less synchronized than “The Fifth Republic.”
In particular, a scene at the end of the film, in which the key figures of the coup take an outdoor shot showing their career progression, was originally directed in “The Fifth Republic”.
When President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, he stated: “To protect free South Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces and to eradicate the immoral and anti-state pro-North elements who are depriving our citizens of freedom and happiness, I declare martial law to protect the constitutional order of freedom” . He added, “We will rebuild and safeguard free South Korea, which is falling into ruin.”
Martial law is a special legal state declared by the government when a serious crisis occurs in the country or society. Under martial law, the army is mobilized to maintain order and ensure national security. This often includes measures to limit individual freedoms, establish military tribunals, and increase military control over civilians. Martial law is declared only in extraordinary situations.
Source: Wikitree
