SEOUL: South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun offered to resign Wednesday over the turmoil caused by the brief imposition of martial law by his close ally President Yoon Suk Yeol.

"First, I deeply regret and take full responsibility for the confusion and concern caused to the public regarding the martial law.

"I have taken full responsibility for all matters related to the martial law and have submitted my resignation to the president," Kim said in a statement.

  - AFP