Seoul, South Korea – South Korean President Lee Jae-myung stated today that he feels compelled to apologize to North Korea for actions taken by his predecessor, specifically the sending of drones and propaganda leaflets across the border. However, he expressed hesitation in making such an apology publicly.
Speaking at a press conference marking the one-year anniversary of former President Yoon Suk-yeol’s controversial declaration of martial law, which briefly plunged the country into turmoil, President Lee acknowledged the delicate nature of the situation. “I feel that I should apologize, but I am hesitant to say it out loud,” he stated.
He further explained his reluctance, saying, “I fear that if I do so, it may be used in ideological battles or to accuse me of being pro-North.”
President Lee’s remarks refer to allegations that Yoon authorized the military to launch drones into North Korean airspace, specifically over Pyongyang, and to drop leaflets containing anti-North Korea propaganda. The alleged intent behind these actions was to provoke a military response from Pyongyang, which could then be used to justify Yoon’s declaration of martial law under the guise of a national emergency.
Last month, Yoon Suk-yeol faced accusations of aiding the enemy. Prosecutors alleged that Yoon and others conspired to create conditions that would allow for the declaration of martial law under emergency circumstances, thereby increasing the risk of armed conflict between the two Koreas and harming public military interests.
North Korea claimed last year to possess evidence that South Korea had sent drones to drop propaganda leaflets over its capital, a claim that the South Korean military has neither confirmed nor denied.
President Lee emphasized that there is still work to be done to address the fallout from the failed attempt to impose martial law by his predecessor a year ago. He stressed the importance of ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. He added that the attempt by former President Yoon Suk-yeol threatened to set the country back irreparably, but the people resisted and stopped the military.
President Lee plans to participate in a citizen’s march later today to commemorate the country’s resistance to the attempted imposition of military rule.
