Chairman Woo Won-sik Talks with US Ambassador to Korea... "Gratitude for the US Government's Right Judgment"

Goldberg "Full Support for Korean Democracy"

Speaker of the National Assembly Woo Won-shik expressed gratitude for the message of support from the U.S. government regarding the lifting of martial law during a phone call with Philip Goldberg, the U.S. Ambassador to Korea.

Speaker Woo Won-shik is delivering an emergency statement at the National Assembly in the early morning of the 4th. The National Assembly passed the resolution to lift the martial law on the same day. Photo by Yonhap News

Park Tae-seo, the Chief Public Relations Officer for the Speaker, told reporters at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 4th, "The call between Speaker Woo and Ambassador Goldberg lasted about eight minutes," adding, "Around 9:40 a.m. that day, the U.S. Embassy in Korea sent a message requesting a call with the Speaker, which was then conducted."

According to Chief Park, Speaker Woo said, "I express my gratitude for the U.S. government's swift and correct judgment," and added, "The National Assembly responded calmly and the State Council resolved to lift martial law, but our political situation must not cause a crisis to security on the Korean Peninsula. We ask for special attention and cooperation."

Furthermore, Speaker Woo reportedly emphasized maintaining extraordinary measures until public concerns are alleviated and expressed unwavering trust in Korea's democratic capabilities.

Ambassador Goldberg said, "The reason for wanting to speak with Speaker Woo was to emphasize steadfast support for Korea," and added, "We will overcome the current situation peacefully and democratically through democracy," according to Chief Park.

He also stated, "Since last night, we have continuously conveyed our position to Korean government officials," and declared, "We send full support for Korean democracy."