South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Apologizes for Martial Law Decree, Defies Calls to Resign through Impeachment Vote

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol publicly apologized on Saturday for his attempt to impose martial law earlier this week, but he refused to resign despite mounting pressure, including from within his own ruling party. Yoon’s apology came just hours before a planned impeachment vote in parliament. He expressed regret for the shock caused by his actions, which included granting the military emergency powers to address threats from “North Korean communist forces” and to suppress domestic opposition. The controversial decree, which was rescinded after just six hours on Wednesday, marked the first time martial law had been declared in South Korea since 1980.
In a televised address, Yoon stated, “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologize to the people who were shocked,” promising that there would be no second attempt to impose martial law. He added that he would leave it to his party to decide the next steps, including the issue of his term in office. Yoon bowed at the end of his speech, which came after intense criticism from political opponents and some members of his own People Power Party (PPP).
PPP leader Han Dong-hoon, who had previously called for Yoon’s resignation, stated that the president was no longer fit to continue in office, increasing the pressure for him to step down. Han and others in the PPP have warned that Yoon’s leadership could further destabilize the country, with opposition parties pushing for his impeachment.
The unfolding political crisis has sent shockwaves through South Korea and drawn international concern, especially from the United States. Yoon’s move to impose martial law has prompted rare criticism from American officials, who had previously supported Yoon’s democratic credentials. Protests and candlelight vigils have erupted outside parliament, demanding Yoon’s removal.
As lawmakers prepare to vote on the impeachment motion, 200 votes are needed for it to succeed. While the opposition controls 192 seats, the success of the impeachment depends on whether members of Yoon’s party break ranks to join the opposition. If Yoon is impeached, a trial by South Korea’s Constitutional Court would follow, potentially leading to his removal from office.