[ecohoon] The darkest hour is just before dawn

Last night, we witnessed and experienced firsthand a modern-day spring in Seoul. The military and police attempted to enter the National Assembly, and the windows of the National Assembly building were shattered. Citizens immediately came out in front of the National Assembly and physically blocked the military and police vehicles from entering.

No one agreed to the martial law. It is reported that only the Minister of National Defense, the Minister of Public Safety and Security, and the President approved and implemented it. Government officials were also unaware of this, and currently, officials close to the President have all submitted their resignations.

Due to the martial law, the Korean stock market opened in a downturn, and the exchange rate even reached the 1470 won range. This added insult to injury amid the crisis facing major Korean corporations like Samsung and Lotte.

The lifting of martial law was achieved through an agreement between the ruling and opposition parties. Although many members of the People Power Party did not attend, more than 10 members participated and agreed to lift the martial law.

In today's National Assembly, where the ruling and opposition parties rarely reach an agreement, this is a truly rare moment of unity. Despite differences in opinions and political ideologies, we shared the same goal we wanted to protect.

In the past, even during difficult times, Korea united as one. From the Japanese colonial period to the IMF crisis and the Taean oil spill, the people stepped up. Even though citizens are divided into progressive and conservative groups, exacerbating polarization, they stepped forward to protect the nation.

We have never faced such difficulties across all aspects: economic, political, social, and cultural. However, through the lifting of martial law, we learned and confirmed our ability to unite as one, despite our divisions.

In a way, it's a good thing. This unfortunate event has given us resilience, allowing us to rise again. Everyone recognized the seriousness of the situation. And we fired a signal flare of hope, allowing us to become united once more.

Just as the darkest hour is before dawn, Korea is going through its darkest hour, but signs of sunrise are appearing. As always, we will overcome this.