South Koreans are expected to take to the streets on Wednesday for a rally marking the first anniversary of ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law that plunged the deeply divided country into political turmoil.

On December 3, 2024, Yoon suspended civilian rule for the first time in more than four decades, prompting massive protests and a showdown in parliament.

A year on, the country remains riven by political polarisation as it faces a slowing economy and an ageing population, as well as the lingering threat from North Korea.

President Lee Jae Myung, who succeeded Yoon after his removal from office, is due to attend the rally outside National Assembly, where last year lawmakers had defied soldiers to vote down the martial law bid within hours of the announcement.

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