South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol gave a closing statement at his impeachment trial on Tuesday, apologizing to citizens for his short-lived declaration of martial law but defending the move.

South Korea’s impeached president defended his martial law decree as a desperate bid to promote public awareness of the danger of the opposition-controlled parliament, and vowed Tuesday to push for political reform if reinstated.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces a string of legal battles as the suspended leader fights to save his political career – and avoid prison – following his brief imposition of martial law last year.