Political situation in South Korea

South Korea's ex-president says sorry – but has no regrets

South Korea's ex-president Yoon Suk-Yeol, who was sentenced to life in prison, apologizes for the state of emergency at the end of 2024. At the same time, he stands by his decision, writes the Yonhap news agency.

- Although it was a decision to save the nation, I deeply apologize to the people for having experienced so much despair and suffering because of my shortcomings, he says in a statement.

The prosecution's argument that Yoon paved the way for a coup d'état when he called the military to parliament is "fiction and delusion," Yoon continues. When he made the surprising decision, which shook the country but was voted down six hours later, he did so with the express purpose of clearing out "anti-state" forces within the opposition.

In the statement, Yoon does not mention whether he will appeal.

The attempted coup in South Korea – this has happened

December 3, 2024: South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol declares martial law, citing the need to protect the country from the opposition, leading to military control of the media and politics.

December 4, 2024: The country's opposition files an impeachment motion against President Yoon, and parliament votes to lift the martial law. 

December 14, 2024: President Yoon is suspended from his duties after the opposition successfully impeached him. A court will decide his future. 

Januari 1, 2025: Corruption investigators warn that anyone who tries to stop Yoon's arrest risks prosecution. Supporters and opponents gather at his residence. 

January 3, 2025: Police try to arrest Yoon at his residence but are stopped by military personnel and thousands of supporters. Yoon is suspected of rebellion and abuse of power. 

April 4, 2025: The Constitutional Court removes Yoon Suk-Yeol from office after he violated the law by declaring a state of emergency. 

Juni 4, 2025: Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung wins the presidential election and takes office immediately after Yoon's removal. 

Februari 19, 2026:  Yoon Suk-Yeol is sentenced to life in prison for attempted coup and abuse of power.