Seoul: The leader of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) issued a belated apology Wednesday for the failed attempt to impose martial law by ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol, amid mounting calls for reform ahead of the local elections later this year. Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok made the apology during a press conference at the party's headquarters, signaling that the conservative party would distance itself from Yoon, who is standing criminal trial on insurrection charges.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Jang expressed regret over the declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, describing it as a "wrong and inappropriate response" that caused confusion and inconvenience to the public and pain to party members. He acknowledged the responsibility as the ruling party at that time and offered sincere apologies to the public, promising to identify mistakes and assume responsibility within the PPP.

Jang, who was among the 18 PPP lawmakers participating in the parliamentary vote to lift the martial law, also announced a series of reform measures aimed at rejuvenating the party's image ahead of the local elections, which are just five months away. His apology is perceived as an effort to address the leadership crisis within the PPP and the growing calls for the party to distance itself from Yoon following the martial law attempt.

The apology has drawn criticism from the ruling Democratic Party, labeling it as a "belated" gesture and questioning the sincerity of the PPP's actions. Despite the skepticism, Jang committed to seeking broader political cooperation with other opposition parties to secure victory in the June 3 local elections. He emphasized openness to alliances with those who share the values of liberal democracy and aim to prevent authoritarian rule under the Lee Jae Myung administration.