South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol broke his silence three days after declaring martial law, addressing the nation on Saturday morning through a televised speech.
During his address, he apologized for the turmoil caused by the declaration and vowed that such incidents would never happen again.
President Yoon acknowledged the political and legal complications stemming from his actions. “I cannot avoid the consequences of the legal and political challenges this announcement has created. However, I promise that such an incident will not be repeated in the future,” he stated.
He also pledged that his government and party would take responsibility for the country’s future governance.
With a humble tone, he said, “If I have caused concern or anxiety among the people, I bow my head and sincerely apologize.”
However, he refrained from commenting on the impeachment proceedings scheduled in the South Korean Parliament on Saturday.
Protests against President Yoon have intensified, with hundreds gathering in front of the Parliament, demanding his resignation.
Opposition parties held urgent meetings on Friday to discuss strategies for his impeachment.
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Leader of the ruling party, Han Dong, admitted that it would be nearly impossible for Yoon to retain power amid growing public discontent.
The impeachment vote in Parliament anticipated to escalate the already volatile political situation in the country. Whether President Yoon can survive this challenge remains uncertain.