South Korean president to address nation about his position on martial law

By Esra Tekin​​​​​​​

ISTANBUL (AA) - South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will address the nation to explain his position on martial law, according to media reports Saturday.

“I understand that President Yoon will deliver his speech before the National Assembly votes on the impeachment bill this afternoon,” a senior government official told Yonhap News.

Yoon met earlier with the leader of the ruling party of South Korea, Han Dong-hoon, and MP Choo Kyung-ho to gather opinions, such as requests for an apology from the ruling party.

“I understand. I will think about it,” Yoon said in response to the requests.

Yoon imposed martial law Tuesday, citing alleged “anti-state activities” by opposition groups.

The Defense Ministry ordered military commanders to prepare and dispatch troops to enforce the decree, including entry into the National Assembly.

But lawmakers managed to enter parliament at midnight, and during an emergency session voted 190-0 to repeal the decree, rendering it void.

Yoon complied with the parliament's decision, convened his Cabinet and reversed the decision.

He now faces impeachment.