Seoul: Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back on Tuesday issued a formal apology for the military's involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law last December. The apology came just one day before the first anniversary of the event, which saw Yoon's short-lived martial law declaration on December 3.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn expressed his remorse in a Facebook post, acknowledging the military's role in endangering citizens and causing harm to innocent service members. He highlighted the grave offense of breaching the National Assembly and the National Election Commission. Ahn, who became the first civilian defense minister in 64 years, emphasized his commitment to reforming the military to serve the people and to sever ties with its past use as a tool for emergency martial law.

Ahn stated that he has been dedicated to transforming the military since his appointment, viewing each effort as crucial in ending the insurrection and ensuring civilian oversight. During the martial law imposition, military and police forces had been deployed to the National Assembly to prevent a vote against the decree.

Currently, top military officials appointed by Yoon, including Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su and former Defense Counterintelligence Command head Lt. Gen. Yeo In-hyung, are facing trial for their significant roles in the insurrection.