South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s sudden declaration of emergency martial law in South Korea has brought renewed attention to the 2024 movie 12.12: The Day, drawing comparisons between the two events.
On Wednesday, Yoon announced lifting the martial law during a live broadcast from the presidential office in Yongsan at 4:27 AM. This came just six hours after he had declared the emergency at 10:25 PM the previous night.
Martial law is typically invoked when a national leader believes the government cannot maintain order or judicial authority in crises such as coups, civil wars, or natural disasters. It often requires legislative approval and involves mobilizing military forces to restore stability.
Yoon explained that he declared emergency martial law at 11 PM the previous night out of a firm resolve to defend the nation from anti-state forces attempting to paralyze government functions and undermine the country’s democratic constitutional order. However, in response to a call from the National Assembly to lift the emergency, he ordered the withdrawal of military forces involved in emergency operations. The government convened a Cabinet meeting at 4:30 AM to approve the decision to lift the state of emergency.
The announcement sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many comparing the event to the plot of 12.12: The Day. Some international viewers even referred to it as a “sequel” to the film.
The movie 12.12: The Day is set against the backdrop of the 1979 military coup in South Korea and the subsequent democratization movement, closely tied to the imposition of martial law. It portrays the citizens’ struggle for democracy during the political upheavals of the 1980s, with the military coup and the resulting state of emergency as central themes. Released in South Korea on November 22, 2023, the film became a massive box office hit, attracting over 13 million viewers and earning its place among the country’s top blockbusters.
At the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards, 12.12: The Day won four major awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Hwang Jung Min), Best Editing, and Most Popular Film. The film was both a commercial success and critically acclaimed.
Through its portrayal of martial law, 12.12: The Day emphasizes the importance of democracy and the power of civil resistance. Its message continues to resonate, especially in the current political climate in South Korea, where debates over national security and civil rights remain highly relevant.
In related news, Jung Woo Sung, who portrayed the role of Lee Tae Shin, the capital defense commander who fights against the powers in 12.12: The Day, has recently faced personal controversy. On November 24, Jung publicly acknowledged that he is the father of a child born to actress Moon Ga Bi.
At Friday’s Blue Dragon Film Awards, Jung addressed the issue, saying, “I sincerely apologize for disappointing those who have supported me. I 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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