SEOUL: Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared his commitment to defending South Korea, stating he will "fight to the end to protect the country" in a message to his supporters. This declaration comes as Yoon faces allegations of insurrection following his brief imposition of martial law earlier in December.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon conveyed his message to supporters gathered outside his presidential residence in Seoul's Yongsan district. His lawyer, Seok Dong-hyeon, relayed the message, emphasizing Yoon's determination to address threats he perceives to South Korea's sovereignty and stability. Yoon's message, delivered on an A4 sheet and signed by him, was handed to supporters through an intermediary.

Yoon expressed appreciation for his supporters' efforts, acknowledging that he has been monitoring their activities via YouTube livestreams. He reiterated his belief in a free democracy, asserting that the nation's people, rather than the state or any political party, are the true proprietors of sovereignty.

The former president's impeachment was prompted by the National Assembly following his invocation of martial law on December 3. The Constitutional Court is now tasked with deciding whether to uphold the impeachment or allow Yoon's reinstatement. In the meantime, opposition lawmakers have criticized Yoon's recent statements, accusing him of inciting unrest and contributing to the country's political instability.