How K-pop will fare if martial law is declared again
What's the story
The recent imposition of Emergency Martial Law in South Korea resulted in K-pop stars being advised against attending events and public appearances. Major entertainment companies including HYBE, JYP, and SM Entertainment reportedly advised their artists not to participate in events starting Wednesday. The entertainment industry went on "high alert," resulting in several event cancelations on Tuesday. Thankfully, martial law has been reversed now, but if a similar situation were to arise again, how would the K-pop world be affected?
Event disruptions
Uncertainty looms over local government and private events
Martial law announcement throws a shadow of uncertainty over local government-organized events and festivals, many of which are expected to be canceled. Private events such as live concerts, fan meetings, and activities planned by entertainment companies also come under threat of cancellation. An industry insider told TenAsia, "It's impossible to predict what could happen if an event is held during martial law."
Industry response
Entertainment industry grapples with unprecedented crisis
The entertainment industry is keeping a close watch on the situation, with a representative from one company calling it an "unprecedented crisis." The last time martial law was declared in South Korea was in 1980, leaving companies with no recent precedents to look up to. Fears grew over the fate of year-end concerts and other scheduled events, including mid-production K-dramas. However, once the decision was reversed, broadcasters like KBS and SBS announced their year-end events would go ahead as scheduled.
National turmoil
Martial law declaration sparks nationwide unrest
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared emergency martial law on Tuesday, saying it was to protect the Republic of Korea from North Korean communist forces and eliminate pro-North Korean elements. The declaration triggered nationwide unrest, with protests and revolts erupting across the country. Under martial law, all media and publications undergo censorship and blockade, hence, major entertainment agencies had to issue emergency notices advising their artists to avoid attending any scheduled events until the situation stabilizes.
Legal challenge
Martial law declaration challenged by National Assembly
Hours after the martial law was imposed, the parliament voted to nullify the declaration. Clashes between police/soldiers and protesters broke out outside the National Assembly, while inside, heightened security surrounded lawmakers and staff. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik called the martial law "invalid," adding that lawmakers "will protect democracy alongside the people." Under South Korean law, martial law can be revoked through a majority vote in parliament.