South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a public apology on Saturday for his surprise martial law declaration earlier this week but refused to step down, defying mounting calls for his resignation ahead of a critical impeachment vote.
In a televised address, Yoon acknowledged the shock his actions caused, describing the martial law order as a desperate measure. “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologize to the people who were shocked,” he said. “There will be no second attempt to impose martial law.”
The apology comes after Yoon rescinded the order just six hours after issuing it on Tuesday, following parliament’s defiance of military and police blockades to vote against the decree.
Political Fallout and Leadership Crisis
The martial law declaration, citing unspecified threats from “North Korean communist forces” and “anti-state actors,” marked the first such move since 1980, plunging South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades. Opposition leaders and members of Yoon’s ruling People Power Party (PPP) have since ramped up pressure for his resignation.
Han Dong-hoon, the PPP leader, criticized Yoon’s leadership as untenable, stating, “The president is no longer in a position to carry out his public duties.” Some PPP members, fearing a repeat of the 2016 impeachment of then-President Park Geun-hye, urged Yoon to step aside before Saturday’s vote.
If Yoon resigns or is impeached, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would temporarily assume presidential duties. The constitution mandates a presidential election within 60 days of a leader’s departure.
Global and Domestic Repercussions
Yoon’s actions have sparked widespread protests and international backlash. Thousands of demonstrators holding candles gathered outside parliament Friday night, demanding his impeachment. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin canceled a planned visit to South Korea, reflecting Washington’s concern over the martial law crisis.
To proceed with impeachment, 200 out of 300 lawmakers in the National Assembly must vote in favor. With opposition parties controlling 192 seats, at least eight PPP members would need to join them.
If passed, the motion would move to the Constitutional Court for a trial, requiring six of nine justices to confirm the decision. However, the court currently has only six sitting judges, raising uncertainty about the trial process.
Investigations and Potential Charges
Yoon and senior officials involved in the martial law declaration are now under investigation by prosecutors and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials. Potential charges include insurrection, abuse of authority, and obstruction of rights. Convictions for leading an insurrection carry the possibility of life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
The impeachment vote is set for Saturday at 5 p.m. (0800 GMT), with opposition leaders vowing to revisit the motion if it fails.
This political crisis has thrown Asia’s fourth-largest economy into turmoil, threatening its democratic reputation and stability.