Full text of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s address to the nation

SEOUL - Dear fellow citizens,

I declared the martial law at 11pm (10pm in Singapore) on Dec 3. About two hours later, around 1am (12am in Singapore) on Dec 4, in accordance with the National Assembly’s resolution to nullify martial law declaration, I ordered the military forces to withdraw and lifted martial law after a late-night Cabinet meeting.

The declaration of emergency martial law

was motivated by the desperation of the president, who is the final decision-maker in state affairs.

However, in the process, I caused concerns and inconvenience to the people. I am very sorry and apologise to the people who must have been very surprised.

Regarding my declaration, I will confront my legal and political responsibility.

Dear fellow citizens,

There are rumors that

martial law will be imposed again

, but let me be clear. There will be no such a thing as the second martial law.

Dear fellow citizens,

Beginning my term in the office, I will entrust my power to our (ruling) party to stabilise the political situation. Our party and the government will together take the responsibility for future state affairs.

Once again, I apologise for causing concern to the people. THE KOREA HERALD/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK