Martial law caused a crisis in South Korea. Could it happen in the US? (December 3rd, 2024)

The sudden decision by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to declare martial law on Tuesday made international news, bringing new attention to a controversial legal topic with a long history in the United States.
Though it's not well defined in U.S. law, martial law could be declared in the U.S., and has been imposed relatively rarely in the country's history during times of war, unrest and natural disaster.
While the specifics vary in different countries and localities, martial law generally allows for the military to control civilians temporarily during times of emergency. During these times, people's ordinary rights may be restricted.