South Korea’s Interior and Safety Minister Lee Sang-min has resigned, the Ministry announced on Dec. 8. President Yoon Suk-yeol has accepted his resignation.
In a statement, Lee acknowledged his shortcomings, expressing regret for not fully meeting the expectations of the public or effectively supporting the president. “I deeply recognize my responsibility and extend my sincere apologies to the nation,” he said.
Explaining his decision, Lee stated, “I believe stepping down is necessary to prevent further disruptions and confusion in governance. As an ordinary citizen, I will now dedicate myself to contributing to South Korea’s progress as a free nation.”
Lee’s resignation follows an impeachment motion filed by the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) on Dec. 7. The motion accuses him of complicity in the unlawful declaration of martial law and using police to block lawmakers from entering the National Assembly.
Appointed in May 2022, Lee was the longest-serving minister in Yoon’s administration.
