South Korea’s financial watchdog urged securities firms to prepare contingency plans to handle potential market turbulence amid heightened political instability. The move followed Wednesday’s market turmoil triggered by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s emergency martial law declaration, which was reversed hours later after lawmakers blocked the decree. The opposition-controlled National Assembly had introduced a motion to impeach Yoon, raising fears of prolonged political uncertainty. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index opened down 0.43% at 2,453.36, after a 1.44% decline in the previous session, reflecting investor caution. While local stock and currency markets initially showed signs of stabilising, officials warned that volatility could persist, depending on political developments. Securities firms were advised to develop scenario-based plans to mitigate potential fallout and ensure market stability.