Seoul: Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun on Wednesday apologized for causing public concern over President Yoon Suk Yeol's attempt to impose martial law and offered to resign. The decision came after Yoon declared emergency martial law in an unexpected late-night statement but subsequently lifted it hours later as the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to reject it. According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim expressed his intention to step down, acknowledging his responsibility for the unrest triggered by the emergency declaration. In a statement sent to reporters, Kim stated, "I have offered my will to resign to the president, taking responsibility for all the turmoil caused by the emergency martial law." The turmoil began when President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law, citing unspecified threats to national security. However, the decision faced immediate backlash from political opponents and civil society, leading to a swift rejection by the National Assembly. The emergency measure was seen by many as an unprecedented move that could have significant implications for the country's democratic institutions. In response to the overwhelming opposition, President Yoon retracted the martial law declaration within hours, seeking to ease tensions. Despite the retraction, the incident has sparked a broader debate about the balance of power and the role of the military in civilian governance. Kim Yong-hyun's resignation offer is seen as an attempt to restore public trust and demonstrate accountability within the government. The development has further highlighted the political challenges facing President Yoon's administration as it navigates through this period of heightened scrutiny and public concern.