Presidential Security Service Apologizes for Inappropriate Conduct During Martial Law Warrant Execution: "Please Reprimand Us"

Kang Hoon-sik, Chief of Staff to the President, and Wi Sung-rak, Director of the National Security Office, along with other attending witnesses, are taking the oath as witnesses at the National Assembly's Steering Committee hearing held on the 6th in Yeouido, Seoul, regarding the audit of the Presidential Secretariat, National Security Office, and Presidential Security Service. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

The Presidential Security Service has issued an apology, stating that it is "deeply sorry" for its involvement in last year's martial law and warrant execution incidents.

Kang Byungin, Acting Director of Planning and Management at the Presidential Security Service, said during the National Assembly Steering Committee’s audit of the President’s Office on November 6, "We are deeply sorry for the inappropriate conduct during last year's martial law situation and the process of executing warrants, which caused national confusion and emotional distress to the public."

Kang pledged, "The Presidential Security Service will be reborn as an organization trusted by the people by adhering to legal procedures and practicing low-profile security. I promise this here today." He also addressed the members of the National Assembly Steering Committee, saying, "If you sternly point out our mistakes, we will humbly accept them and use them as a foundation for the growth of the Presidential Security Service."

The Presidential Security Service became embroiled in controversy after blocking the execution of arrest warrants and search and seizure operations issued by the court following the December 3 Martial Law incident last year. In response, on June 9, the President’s Office placed all five related officials on standby. In a written statement, the Presidential Security Service said, "We are reflecting on ourselves and sincerely offer our apologies to the public."