South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has apologized for imposing martial law earlier this week and assured the public that no similar orders will be issued again.
The president is facing calls for impeachment after declaring martial law on Tuesday night, a decision that was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. His ruling People Power Party (PPP) has also signaled a loss of confidence in his leadership.
PPP leader Han Dong-hoon stated, “His early resignation is inevitable.”
In a brief televised address, Yoon expressed regret, saying, “I deeply apologize to the people who were shocked. I will not avoid any legal or political responsibility regarding the declaration of martial law.”
Contrary to speculation that he might step down during the address, Yoon instead announced that he would delegate efforts to stabilize the situation to his party. He did not mention impeachment.
The opposition plans to push for an impeachment vote on Saturday. For the motion to pass, it will require support from at least eight members of Yoon’s party, along with a two-thirds majority in the 300-seat parliament.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung criticized Yoon’s response, calling it disappointing and saying it would only fuel public anger. “The greatest threat to South Korea right now is the president himself,” Lee added.
Public discontent has also grown. Yang Soonsil, a seafood vendor at Namdaemun Market in Seoul, said she felt fear and disbelief when martial law was declared. “I’ve lost all trust in him. He’s not my president anymore,” she said. “We need to fight until the end.”
Shopper Han Jungmo agreed, saying Yoon’s apology was insufficient. “He must step down or be impeached. The trust is broken,” he said. “If he insists on staying in office, it would be hopeless. Martial law isn’t his only wrongdoing.”
The political crisis erupted late Tuesday when Yoon unexpectedly declared martial law, citing threats from “anti-state forces” and North Korea. However, it became apparent the move was linked to his domestic struggles, including low approval ratings and corruption allegations.
Lawmakers convened urgently to nullify the declaration, with some scaling barricades to enter the parliament. Six hours later, Yoon withdrew the order after it was voted down. Fears persisted that he might try to reissue the decree, prompting some lawmakers to remain near the National Assembly to prevent further action.
Yoon’s presidency had already been weakened by an opposition-controlled legislature, low popularity, and corruption accusations, leaving him politically vulnerable even before the martial law controversy.