SOUTH Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued a public apology following the backlash over his failed attempt to impose martial law, a move that sparked political turmoil and calls for his impeachment.
In a brief two-minute address, Yoon expressed regret, stating, “This emergency martial law declaration stemmed from my desperation as the ultimate responsible party for state affairs.”
He added, “I am deeply sorry and sincerely apologize to the citizens who must have been greatly shocked. I caused anxiety and inconvenience to the people of South Korea.”
Yoon, who is expected to face an impeachment vote in parliament this weekend, vowed to take full legal and political responsibility for the martial law declaration.
He also addressed rumors suggesting a second attempt at martial law, stating, “There will absolutely be no second attempt at a constitutional amendment.”
The president confirmed that he would leave it to his party to handle the political fallout, including stabilizing the situation for the remainder of his term.
“I apologize to the citizens for the concerns I have caused,” Yoon said before bowing and exiting the podium.
The controversy erupted late Tuesday when Yoon declared martial law in an unannounced televised address, accusing the opposition Democratic Party of sympathizing with North Korea and engaging in “anti-state activities.”
The declaration followed a motion by the Democratic Party, which controls parliament, to impeach top prosecutors and reject the government’s budget proposal.
However, the move was quickly reversed after lawmakers, supported by soldiers, forced their way into parliament to strike down the decree within hours.
The declaration, though brief, was met with shock and outrage, particularly in a country still haunted by the legacy of military dictatorship and martial law during the 1980s.
In the aftermath, protests erupted, and political pressure on Yoon has intensified, with opposition figures and some members of his own party now demanding his resignation.
The leader of Yoon’s ruling party even called for his immediate suspension, citing the “grave danger” his actions posed to the nation.