President Yoon Apologizes for Martial Law, Faces Impeachment but Refuses to Resign

Dec 7, 2024, 01:18 AM

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized to the nation on Saturday morning for declaring martial law on Tuesday, which he revoked after six hours. In a televised address lasting about two minutes, Yoon expressed deep remorse, stating, "I am deeply sorry and sincerely apologize for causing inconvenience and anxiety to the people." He pledged not to impose martial law again and said he would yield all administrative power to the ruling People Power Party. The apology comes ahead of a parliamentary impeachment vote scheduled for Saturday evening. Despite widespread calls for his resignation and ongoing mass protests, Yoon did not step down, leaving the decision about his tenure to the ruling party. His actions have plunged the country into political turmoil and raised concerns about a looming political stalemate in South Korea.