Seoul: Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has issued an apology for the suffering caused by his brief imposition of martial law in late 2024, while simultaneously defending his actions as necessary for the nation's salvation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon's statement followed the Seoul Central District Court's decision to sentence him to life in prison for his role in leading an insurrection. The court found Yoon guilty of deploying troops to the National Assembly under martial law, an act it deemed aimed at incapacitating a constitutional body. Despite the conviction, Yoon's statement gave little indication of his intention to appeal.
Yoon's defense centered around the argument that his actions did not constitute an insurrection. "It is difficult to accept the logic that troops going to the National Assembly amounted to insurrection," Yoon stated through his legal team. He maintained that his decision, made on December 3, 2024, was in the best interest of the country and its citizens. "While it was a decision to save the nation, I deeply apologize to the people for making you experience much despair and suffering due to my shortcomings," he added.
The former president expressed doubts about the independence of the judiciary, questioning the viability of an appeal. His legal team has yet to decide on pursuing an appeal, pending further consultation with Yoon. Meanwhile, special counsel Cho Eun-suk's team, which had sought the death penalty for Yoon, has already signaled its intent to appeal the court's ruling.
Yoon's martial law declaration aimed to eliminate anti-state forces but was rescinded six hours later following legislative action by the National Assembly. Despite the brevity of the decree, its implications have left a lasting impact on the nation's democratic fabric.