Embattled South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized to his countrymen but did not resign his post in the wake of moves to impeach him and massive street protests against his short-lived martial law declaration.

On Tuesday, Yoon surprised the country and the international community when he declared martial law and quickly deployed troops and helicopters to the parliament.

He withdraw the declaration after the parliament rejected the decree.

“The declaration of martial law arose from my desperation as the ultimate responsible party for state affairs, Yoon said in a two-minute televised address to the nation..

“However, in the process, I caused anxiety and inconvenience to the public. I sincerely apologize to the citizens who were greatly distressed,” he said in his first public appearance since Tuesday.

He stressed that he is ready to face the consequences of his action, stressing that he will “not avoid the legal and p[olitical responsibility to this martial law declaration.”

“I will entrsut my party with methods to stabilize the political situaiton, including the remainder of my term… I apologize to the citizens for the concerns I have cause,” he concluded.

Despite the apology, there remain a strong call for his resignation.

The parliament is set to vote on an impeachment bid against him unless he steps down earlier.

In his attempt to put the nation under military rule, Yoon explained that it was his decision as the opposition party continues to sympathize with North Korea.