Explainer: What events led to chaotic scenes in South Korea?

Mr Yoon’s decision has led to calls for his impeachment (AP)

For many observers, wild pre-dawn scenes in Seoul, with armed troops and legislators storming South Korea’s parliament building after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, seemingly came out of nowhere.

But the chaotic events — still playing out as opposition leaders introduce an impeachment motion and call for Mr Yoon’s immediate resignation — should be seen in the context of South Korea’s recent tumultuous political and social history.