South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared “emergency martial law” calling it a necessary measure to protect the country from North Korea’s communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements. Announcing a surprise late-night television address, Yoon accused the opposition parties of undermining the government, sympathizing with North Korea, and paralyzing the nation’s legislative process. He did not say what specific measures would be taken, however, the announcement signals a dramatic escalation in the country’s political turmoil.

The move comes as Yoon’s People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party continue to disagree over next year’s budget bill. Months ago, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung had warned that martial law could lead to “a perfect dictatorship,” pointing to historical precedents of its misuse.