The recent declaration of martial law by President Yoon Suk-yeol has ignited public fear and protests in South Korea, recalling traumatic memories of past authoritarian rule. Amid confusion over alleged ‘pro-North anti-state’ threats, citizens expressed concerns about potential restrictions on freedoms, reminiscent of the brutal crackdowns during earlier martial law periods. This contentious move has divided public opinion, with many young South Koreans grappling with the possibility of repeating a painful historical legacy.