The recent declaration of martial law by President Yoon Suk Yeol in South Korea has drawn parallels to the country’s turbulent past, where martial law was frequently used by authoritarian regimes. Citizens express fear and skepticism regarding potential political motives behind Yoon’s announcement, reminiscent of the traumatic experiences during previous martial law periods that shaped South Korea’s democracy. The public’s memories of past violence and repression deeply influence their reactions, igniting protests and urging for the preservation of democratic freedoms.