U.S. watching South Korea developments with “grave concern”

The United States is expressing concern over South Korea’s surprise declaration of martial law and the ensuing political dispute. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said the U-S was watching events in South Korea with “grave concern.” He said American officials had every hope and expectation that any political disputes would be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. President Biden and his top national security and diplomatic aides were being kept appraised of the situation. Campbell stressed that the U-S alliance with South Korea was “ironclad.”