Kang Jun-wook, South Korea’s Presidential Secretary for National Integration, has resigned amid widespread criticism over his past remarks defending former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law.

Kang, a former professor at Dongguk University, was appointed earlier this month by President Lee Jae Myung to lead efforts on public consensus and social unity. However, backlash grew after it was revealed that in a book published in March, Kang wrote that Yoon’s martial law plan was an expression of political frustration rather than rebellion. He criticized those calling it an act of treason for inciting public unrest.

Adding to the controversy, Kang had previously posted on Facebook defending Japan’s colonial rule over Korea (1910–45), claiming it contributed to modernization, and denied allegations of forced labor during wartime — sparking further outrage.

Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said the secretary’s actions were inconsistent with the government’s principles, and that his resignation was accepted after public outcry.

“In light of the strong public criticism, Kang decided to step down voluntarily and sincerely apologize to the people,” the spokesperson said. A successor will soon be appointed who shares the administration’s commitment to unity and democratic values.

In a related development, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been booked for allegedly providing false testimony to the Constitutional Court and National Assembly concerning Yoon’s martial law plot. The investigation, led by Special Counsel Cho Eun-suk, suspects Han misrepresented key facts under oath.

These developments mark a deepening political controversy around Yoon’s actions and have reignited national debate over democratic accountability and the legacy of past regimes in South Korea.