PM says he 'consistently' opposed martial law declaration

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo speaks during a meeting at the National Assembly in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, Dec. 11. Yonhap

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said Wednesday he "consistently" voiced opposition against President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law last week as he apologized for a failure to prevent it from taking place.

It marked Han's first remarks over his actions regarding the imposition of martial law on Dec. 3, which was lifted hours later after the National Assembly voted to reject it.

"(I) consistently opposed the Dec. 3 martial law during its declaration process but I have been blaming myself for not blocking it in the end," Han said in a statement. "I am truly sorry for bringing pain and confusion to each and every citizen."

"I will fulfill my duties until the end and bear the responsibility that I must shoulder without excuses or evasion."

Han said it is most important to run state affairs in a "stable" manner under the Constitution and the law, vowing to promptly resolve the current situation.

Han was reportedly among the members of a Cabinet meeting that Yoon convened right before declaring martial law. Police on Tuesday requested the Cabinet members, including Han, appear for questioning. (Yonhap)