SEOUL: President Yoon Suk Yeol on Thursday defended his controversial martial law declaration as a legitimate act of governance and denied the insurrection charges levied against him. In a televised address, Yoon vowed to contest any impeachment or investigation, asserting that his actions were intended to protect national interests.According to Yonhap News Agency, President Yoon emphasized that deploying troops to the National Assembly under martial law does not equate to insurrection. He described the declaration as a necessary measure to counteract an opposition he accused of paralyzing the government, framing it as a "highly calibrated political judgment."Yoon reiterated his commitment to facing any potential impeachment or investigation, stating, "Whether I am impeached or investigated, I will fairly confront it." He accused the opposition of hindering governmental operations through impeachment efforts and budget cuts, describing their actions as a "frenzied sword dance."Following the martial law decree, the National Assembly approved the next year's budget of 673.3 trillion won (US$471.5 billion), a figure adjusted by the main opposition party. Additionally, impeachment motions were passed against the chief state auditor and prosecutors, despite opposition from Yoon's ruling People Power Party (PPP)."The National Assembly, dominated by the large opposition party, has become a monster that destroys the Constitutional order of free democracy," Yoon stated. The main opposition Democratic Party currently holds 171 seats in the 300-member parliament.Yoon also disclosed that he had instructed former defense chief Kim Yong-hyun to examine the National Election Commission's voting system, citing concerns about its integrity following alleged cyber attacks by North Korean hackers. He concluded his address by apologizing for the disruption caused by the brief imposition of martial law and pledging to continue his fight alongside the public.Ahead of Yoon's address, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon voiced support for the president's impeachment to prevent further disruption, urging party lawmakers to vote according to their own "conviction."
- September 13, 2026
