Acting President Choi Sang-mok pledged on Friday to prioritize stabilizing state affairs amid political turmoil following the brief imposition of martial law earlier this month. In a written statement, he highlighted the government’s commitment to minimizing disruption and maintaining order. “The government is dedicated to ensuring national stability,” Choi said, while apologizing for his role in the current unrest.
Choi has faced criticism for attending a Cabinet meeting shortly before President Yoon declared martial law on December 3. Despite this, he reaffirmed South Korea’s strong alliance with the United States during a phone call with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, urging the military to stay vigilant against potential provocations from North Korea.
“A firm security stance must be upheld to deter rash actions by North Korea,” Choi emphasized, stressing the importance of the South Korea-U.S. partnership in maintaining peace. He also directed Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul to reassure global partners that South Korea’s foreign policy and trade commitments remain unchanged.
Domestically, Choi instructed the acting interior minister to strengthen disaster response systems and maintain public order, while urging Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong to ensure emergency medical services operate effectively during winter. He later convened the National Security Council to further address pressing security concerns.
Choi’s interim leadership is expected to face challenges from the opposition-controlled National Assembly, with the Democratic Party pressing him to swiftly appoint Constitutional Court nominees to proceed with President Yoon’s impeachment trial.