Kim Moon-soo apologizes for martial law, calls former leader’s decision wrong

Kim Moon-soo, presidential candidate of the People Power Party, speaks at the National Assembly in Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap

People Power Party (PPP) presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo on Thursday issued a rare and formal apology over the previous Yoon Suk Yeol administration’s attempt to invoke martial law, calling it an inappropriate decision that triggered nationwide turmoil.

"Had I known in advance, I would have clearly advised the president against it. Martial law should never be activated unless the nation is on the brink of collapse beyond what law enforcement can control," Kim said at an emergency press conference at the National Assembly.

“To all the people who suffered — from small business owners to those emotionally burdened by the political chaos — I offer my sincerest and most respectful apology.”

His apology came amid growing criticism over the Dec. 3 martial law declaration, and Kim's previous stance that Yoon did nothing wrong regarding the former president's attempt to invoke emergency powers in response to political unrest caused due to the National Assembly impeachment proceedings. The move has since drawn widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum for undermining democratic norms.

Kim had previously expressed regret in a televised interview on Monday but reaffirmed his apology Thursday, addressing reporters directly. This shift is widely seen as an effort to distance himself from Yoon and reassure moderate voters ahead of the June 3 presidential election.

He also responded to a proposal made by campaign co-chair Lee Jung-hyun, which included recommending Yoon’s voluntary departure from the party and Kim’s own formal apology. While agreeing with the need for accountability over the martial law incident, Kim dismissed the idea of urging Yoon to leave the PPP.

“That is a decision for the former president to make. As the PPP’s presidential candidate, I don’t think it’s my place to demand his departure,” he said.

Nevertheless, sources close to Yoon told local media that the impeached president had effectively left the matter in Kim’s hands, stating that he would respect any decision the candidate makes regarding party unity and the upcoming election.

The PPP candidate’s remarks reflect a broader attempt to consolidate conservative support while projecting a more accountable and centrist image. With less than three weeks remaining before the election, Kim faces the dual challenge of uniting a fragmented conservative base and addressing voter concerns over democratic backsliding.

Kim concluded the press event by emphasizing unity within the party, mentioning his willingness to accept former members returning to the fold.

“Our party is like a melting pot. I will welcome everyone willing to join us in restoring national stability.”