The leader of South Korea’s main opposition People Power Party (PPP) expressed regret on Wednesday for the failed bid to enforce martial law by ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok, at a press conference, conveyed the party’s dissociation from Yoon, who faces insurrection charges. Jang admitted that the declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, was a mistaken and inappropriate response that caused public confusion and party distress.
Jang, acknowledging the party’s responsibility at the time, extended sincere apologies to the public. He emphasized the party’s commitment to introspection and rectification of errors. Jang pledged a new beginning aligned with public expectations and emphasized the need for broader political collaboration with other opposition groups for the upcoming local elections.
Former President Yoon’s trial for leading an insurrection through the brief imposition of martial law is nearing its conclusion, with interest in the potential severity of his punishment, including the death penalty. The Seoul Central District Court is set to conduct four hearings this week in the insurrection trial involving Yoon, former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, former National Police Agency chief Cho Ji-ho, and five others.
