“South Korea’s President Yoon Apologizes for Martial Law Decision Amid Impeachment Pressure”

Martial Law Apology and Presidential Address

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has publicly apologized for declaring martial law for the first time since 1980. In a televised address, Yoon acknowledged the shock his decision caused and expressed deep regret, stating that the move was born out of desperation. “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologize to the people who were shocked,” Yoon said, bowing during the address. He also confirmed he would not seek to avoid legal and political responsibility for his actions, but left his future to his party, adding, “I leave it up to my party to take steps to stabilize the political situation, including the issue of my term in office.”

Rescinding the Martial Law Order

Yoon’s martial law order, which granted the military sweeping powers to combat what he termed anti-state forces, was quickly revoked. The decree was overturned just six hours after its announcement, following a vote in parliament that defied military and police efforts to enforce the declaration. The reversal highlights the intense political resistance to Yoon’s actions.

Political Pressure and Calls for Resignation

After the apology, Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP), declared that Yoon was no longer fit for office. Han said the president should resign, describing him as a danger to the country. Despite the growing pressure, PPP members later reaffirmed their formal opposition to Yoon’s impeachment. The national mood remains volatile, with public protests against Yoon intensifying.

Protests and Public Sentiment

On Friday night, thousands of demonstrators gathered outside parliament, holding candles and demanding Yoon’s impeachment. The protests resemble those from 2016, when former President Park Geun-hye was ousted following months of public demonstrations. More protests are expected on Saturday, ahead of the impeachment vote in parliament.

Legal and Criminal Investigations

In addition to the political fallout, investigations into the martial law decree are underway. Prosecutors, police, and the Corruption Investigation Office have launched probes into Yoon and senior officials, looking into charges of insurrection, abuse of authority, and obstructing others’ rights. If convicted of insurrection, those involved face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

The Future of Yoon’s Leadership

As the nation waits for the outcome of the impeachment vote, President Yoon’s leadership is under significant scrutiny. The political crisis has left his future in office uncertain, with protests continuing to grow and investigations into his actions expanding.