South Korean PM Expresses Regret Over Martial Law Controversy at National Assembly
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Seoul, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Prime Minister of South Korea, Han Duck-soo, expressed his regrets on Wednesday regarding President Yoon Suk Yeol's recent declaration of martial law, emphasizing that he had voiced clear opposition to the decision.
Han delivered his apology during an emergency interpellation session at the National Assembly concerning the brief implementation of martial law, and he mentioned that he was only informed of the plan on the night of Yoon's declaration on December 3, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
"I clearly opposed the plan and attempted to dissuade the president from his determination," he stated.
"However, I ultimately could not prevent it ... I am sorry, and I carry a significant sense of guilt."
He also acknowledged procedural mistakes during the Cabinet meeting that occurred shortly before the president's martial law declaration when questioned about its validity due to the lack of official minutes.
"The meeting was called unexpectedly, and there was a severe lack of systematic preparation for such a declaration," he elaborated, noting, "Whether it should be classified as a gathering of Cabinet members or an official Cabinet meeting will be determined through an investigation."
Earlier in the day, Han remarked that he had consistently opposed the martial law declaration.
"(I) consistently opposed the December 3 martial law during its declaration process, but I have been blaming myself for not stopping it in the end," Han expressed.
"I genuinely apologize for causing distress and confusion to every citizen."
"I will fulfill my responsibilities until the end and accept the accountability that I must bear without excuses or avoidance."
Han stated that it is crucial to manage state affairs in a stable manner in accordance with the Constitution and the law, pledging to quickly resolve the ongoing situation.
Reportedly, Han was among the Cabinet members present at the meeting that Yoon convened just before declaring martial law. Law enforcement requested that the Cabinet members, including Han, appear for questioning on Tuesday.
