South Korean President apologizes for Martial Law decision amid growing public outrage

In a rare and emotional public address, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has apologized for his decision to impose martial law, a move that has sparked a wave of anger and protests across the country. 

The apology came after increasing pressure and calls for his resignation, with many questioning his leadership.

In a televised speech on Saturday, Yoon admitted that his decision to declare martial law was made out of frustration but acknowledged it caused widespread worry and trouble for the public. 

He said, “As president, my decision came from a place of frustration, but I realize it has created anxiety and inconvenience for the people. I deeply apologize and ask for your forgiveness.”

This is the first time President Yoon has spoken since he announced the emergency law late on Tuesday night, a move that quickly became controversial and led to calls for his impeachment. 

He also recognized the serious legal and political consequences of his actions, saying, “I cannot escape the legal and political responsibilities arising from this declaration.”

Yoon also reassured the public, who were concerned that martial law might be imposed again. 

"People are worried that martial law might be imposed again. Let me make it clear: it will not happen. There will be no martial law. I will leave the decision on how to stabilize the country to my party, which is also considering the matter of my term in office,” he explained.

The president went on to say, “My party and government will take responsibility for the country‍‍`s future. I bow my head in apology once again for the concerns I’ve caused.”

On December 3, Yoon’s government declared martial law, but it was quickly overturned by the country’s parliament. 

Since then, opposition parties have been working on impeachment proceedings against the president.

In the midst of this political crisis, South Korea’s Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigned on Wednesday, responding to the mounting pressure from opposition groups who are calling for the president’s removal.

In South Korea, impeaching a president requires a two-thirds majority in parliament. 

Yoon’s party holds 108 seats, so it remains uncertain whether impeachment will succeed. If he is removed from office, a new president must be chosen within 60 days, during which the Prime Minister would take on the presidential duties.

The main opposition party has even accused Yoon of treason, and six other opposition groups have joined in the call for his resignation. 

This kind of situation has not been seen in South Korea since 1980, making it an unprecedented political crisis.

Meanwhile, the country’s largest labor union, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, has announced an indefinite strike in protest. 

There have also been widespread demonstrations demanding Yoon’s arrest. With the country in turmoil, it’s unclear what the future holds for President Yoon.