Here’s what he said in his brief two-minute speech.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol finally addressed the nation in a televised speech after going silent for three days after declaring and withdrawing martial law. In his speech, which came only hours before the parliament votes on his potential impeachment, President Yoon apologized for the damage done but did not resign despite the demands. Instead, he claimed that his party would work with the government to stabilize the country.
Here’s what he said in his brief two-minute speech:
“Dear citizens,
I declared an emergency martial law at 11 PM on December 3. Approximately two hours later, at 1 AM on December 4, following the National Assembly’s vote against it, I ordered the military to withdraw and convened an emergency cabinet meeting to officially lift the emergency martial law.
This declaration stemmed from a sense of urgency in fulfilling my ultimate responsibility as the President. However, I deeply regret that the process caused anxiety and inconvenience to the public. I sincerely apologize to the citizens who were undoubtedly alarmed.
I will not evade the legal or political responsibilities associated with this declaration.
To address circulating concerns about another potential martial law declaration, I want to state unequivocally that no such thing will ever happen again. As for measures to ensure political stability moving forward, including my remaining term in office, I will entrust these decisions to my party.
The People Power Party and the government will work together to take full responsibility for governing the nation in the future. Once again, I deeply apologize for the concerns I have caused you.”
— President Yoon Suk Yeol
Despite the apologetic speech and his promise not to declare another emergency martial law, Koreans remain adamant on impeaching President Yoon and ending his administration—as they gear up to march in the candlelight protest led by the opposing Democratic Party of Korea.
📌국민 촛불 대행진🕯️
✔ 일시 : 2024.12.7(토), 15:00
✔ 장소 : 국회의사당 앞(국회의사당역 *5번* 출구)“내란죄 윤석열 퇴진! 국민주권 실현! 사회대개혁!”#더불어민주당 #국민촛불대행진 #모이자국회로 #국회 pic.twitter.com/6L89ILQqER
— 더불어민주당 (@TheMinjoo_Kr) December 6, 2024
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