By Diplomacy Journal Lee Jon-young

In his fourth public address on Dec. 12, President Yoon Suk-yeol asserted that the “December 3 emergency martial law” was not a civil war, but a highly political judgment to protect the constitutional order of a liberal democracy. 

“Whether it's an investigation or impeachment, I will face it with dignity,” said President Yoon, making it clear that he has no intention of resigning or leaving office early.

Yoon denounced the opposition parties' abuse of power as unconstitutional, while claiming his use of executive power was within the constitutional framework.

"I thought I cannot just wait and see any longer," Yoon said. "The declaration of martial law came to my attention."

He also said the following troop dispatch to the National Assembly for forcible entry was not meant to paralyze the National Assembly.

"If I really intended to paralyze the National Assembly, the martial law would have gone into effect on a weekend, not on a weekday. Also, I would have cut electricity, water to the National Assembly and broadcasting would have been restricted. But I did none of that."

Noting the fact that he dispatched fewer than 300 troops to the National Assembly, Yoon said that it is another indication that the martial law declaration was not intended to bring the National Assembly under control.

He claimed that his intention was to send a warning to the opposition parties and make citizens realize the parties' "anti-state" activities.

Yoon denounced the opposition parties for wielding its legislative power to block law changes that would allow the punishment of spying activities by foreign nationals, taking sides with North Korea and unilaterally moving to cut budget items he said were essential for the economic growth of the country.

Yoon also disclosed he had ordered then-Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun to look into the vulnerability of the National Election Commission, in the wake of North Korea's hacking attacks in the second half of 2023.

However, Yoon said the election authorities refused to comply with the Yoon administration's request to inspect the internal system.

Yoon underscored he would face the threat of impeachment and investigations targeting himself, concerning the imposition of martial law on Dec. 3.

"No matter whether it is an impeachment or an investigation that's ahead of me, I will boldly face them," he said. "I've already said that I would not avert the legal and political responsibilities."

Yoon asserted, “Faced with the impending conviction of the leader of a major opposition Democratic Party of Korea, they attempt to circumvent it by impeaching the president and calling for an early presidential election. Even if it means bringing down the state system, they attempt to cover up his crimes and seize control of the country.”