South Korean President Expresses Deep Apology Over Martial Law
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed that he is “deeply sorry” for the temporary imposition of martial law in the country. Read Full Article at RT.com.
In a recent statement, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed that he is “deeply sorry” for his decision to impose martial law in the country and pledged that he would not repeat this course of action.
Yoon, known for his previous lighthearted moments, including serenading US President Joe Biden with "American Pie" and mentioning that he took up golf to gain the favor of President-elect Donald Trump, delivered his apology during a two-minute address on Saturday. This marked his first public appearance following the crisis that unfolded earlier in the week.
He stated, “This emergency martial law declaration stemmed from my desperation as the ultimate responsible party for state affairs.”
Acknowledging the impact of his decision, Yoon recognized that it had “caused anxiety and inconvenience” to the people of South Korea. “I am deeply sorry and sincerely apologize to the citizens, who must have been greatly shocked,” he emphasized.
Yoon dismissed rumors regarding a potential second attempt at martial law, asserting that “there will absolutely be no second attempt at a constitutional amendment.”
With an impeachment vote looming in the parliament, he confirmed that he “will not avoid legal and political responsibility related to this martial law declaration.”
“I will entrust my party with methods to stabilize the political situation, including the remainder of my term… I apologize to the citizens for the concerns I have caused,” he concluded.
Earlier, on Tuesday, Yoon had delivered an unexpected televised address, declaring emergency martial law based on accusations that the opposition, which he claimed was sympathetic to North Korea, was planning a “rebellion.”
Quickly, 190 lawmakers who managed to navigate military cordons voted unanimously to revoke the decree within hours. This prompted thousands to take to the streets, protesting against the president's actions.
READ MORE: Coup attempt in South Korea: What was it all about?
Yoon announced his reversal of the martial law decision less than six hours after its implementation.
While Yoon’s People Power Party initially expressed intentions to defend him against impeachment, party leader Han Dong-hoon shifted his position on Friday, advocating for Yoon’s immediate suspension, arguing that his continued presence posed “grave danger” to the country. Han claimed his perspective changed due to “credible evidence” suggesting that Yoon had ordered the arrest of key politicians during the brief period of martial law.
On Saturday, Han reiterated that “early resignation is inevitable” for the president, asserting that it was impossible for him to fulfill his regular duties.
Aarav Patel contributed to this report for TROIB News