South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued an apology following his controversial martial law declaration earlier this week, which he swiftly reversed amid widespread political backlash. The declaration, made late Tuesday night, triggered a political crisis, with many questioning Yoon’s leadership and fueling calls for his impeachment.
In a brief televised address, Yoon expressed regret, apologizing to the South Korean public for the shock and confusion caused by his unexpected move. “I am deeply sorry and sincerely apologize to the people who were taken aback by this decision,” Yoon stated. Despite the pressure, he did not announce his resignation, as many had anticipated. Instead, Yoon assured the nation that he would delegate the responsibility of stabilizing the political situation to his ruling People Power Party (PPP).
The declaration of martial law was initially justified by the president as a response to “anti-state forces” and external threats, particularly from North Korea. However, it soon became clear that the move was driven more by internal political challenges. Facing mounting criticism for his handling of corruption allegations and his declining popularity, Yoon appeared to use the decree as a tool to assert control over a political crisis.
Within hours of the martial law announcement, lawmakers rushed to the National Assembly, bypassing barricades and security personnel to challenge the president’s order. In an unprecedented move, the assembly voted to nullify the declaration, forcing Yoon to retract the measure just six hours after its announcement. Despite this swift reversal, fears lingered that Yoon might attempt a second martial law decree, prompting some lawmakers to remain near the National Assembly in anticipation of further actions.
The martial law fiasco has deepened the political instability surrounding President Yoon, whose administration had already been under intense pressure due to his plummeting approval ratings and the opposition-controlled legislature. On Friday, Han Dong-hoon, the leader of the PPP, stated that Yoon’s ability to govern had been severely compromised. “His early resignation is now inevitable,” Han said, signaling that even members of the ruling party are losing confidence in the president’s leadership.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has seized on the political turmoil, calling for Yoon’s impeachment. He expressed disappointment with the president’s apology, suggesting that it would only fuel public anger and mistrust. “This will only deepen the people’s sense of betrayal,” Lee said, adding that he would push for a parliamentary vote on impeachment this Saturday.
For the impeachment motion to succeed, it requires the support of at least eight members of Yoon’s own party, securing a two-thirds majority in the 300-seat National Assembly. The growing opposition momentum signals an uncertain future for President Yoon, whose tenure is increasingly overshadowed by political turmoil and his administration’s faltering credibility.
This crisis marks a new chapter in Yoon Suk Yeol’s presidency, highlighting the fragility of his leadership and the deepening divisions within South Korea’s political landscape.
