South Korean president weighs apology to North Korea over allegations of leafleting and drone use

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said Wednesday he’s weighing a possible apology to North Korea over suspicions that his ousted conservative predecessor intentionally sought to raise military tensions between the war-divided rivals in the buildup to his brief martial law declaration in December 2024.

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SOUTH KOREAN President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a news conference to mark the first anniversary of the Dec. 3 martial crisis at the Blue House in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

(AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

Speaking to reporters on the first anniversary of imprisoned former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ill-fated power grab, Lee — a liberal who won a snap presidential election following Yoon’s removal from office in April — stressed his desire to repair ties with North Korea. But asked about North Korea’s years-long detentions of several South Korean nationals, Lee said he wasn't aware of the issue, drawing criticism from relatives who call for their safe return.