In 2013, Park An-soo appeared on MBC’s variety show “Real Men” during its Haeryong Unit episode.
At the time, Park An-soo was the regiment commander (Colonel) of the 50th Infantry Division and was featured receiving moving-in reports from cast members Kim Soo-ro, Sam Hammington, Ryu Soo-young, Seo Kyung-seok and Son Jin-young.
During the episode, Park An-soo jokingly commented on Kim Soo-ro’s commanding voice, praised Ryu Soo-young’s determination and encouraged Seo Kyung-seok to be “passionate like fire“. To Son Jin-young, who said he aspired to become a dragon, Park An-soo quipped, “Have you seen the dragon throne over there?” When Sam Hammington vowed to avoid using the “yo” letter, Park An-soo said, “It’s okay to use them occasionally.“
Park An-soo also welcomed the cast back to the Haeryong Unit, urging them to “take pride as soldiers“. Addressing Kim Soo-ro, who had sustained a shoulder injury, Park An-soo remarked, “There’s still a role you can play for the country.”
With the martial law declaration, this 11-year-old footage has been brought back into the spotlight. MBC even uploaded the scene to its official YouTube channel, prompting netizens to comment, “Martial Law Commander on ‘Real Men’”, “Can’t believe he’s now the commander” and “This unfolded as quickly as the martial law repeal resolution.”
On December 3, President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law and appointed four-star General Park An-soo, the current Chief of Staff of the Army, as Martial Law Commander. This decision bypassed Kim Myung-soo, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the highest-ranking military officer, sparking discussions about its unusual nature.
Born in 1968 and a graduate of the Korea Military Academy’s 46th class, Park An-soo has served as Commander of the 8th Corps, 39th Infantry Division, and Director of Operations Planning at the Ground Operations Command. His appointment as Army Chief of Staff last year was seen by some as an unusually rapid promotion.
In his first decree as Martial Law Commander, issued on December 3 at 11 PM, Park An-soo stated, “To protect the liberal democratic order and ensure public safety against anti-state forces threatening to overthrow the Republic of Korea, the following measures are hereby announced nationwide.” He banned political activities, assemblies and protests while placing all media and publications under martial law command control.
Despite these declarations, President Yoon rescinded martial law on December 4 at 4 AM, just six hours after announcing it, following the National Assembly’s unanimous resolution to repeal it.
Source: Daum
