In a shocking turn of events, South Korea’s former defense minister Kim Yong-Hyun attempted suicide shortly before his formal arrest in connection with a failed martial law attempt. The incident occurred at a detention center where Kim reportedly tried to harm himself using his undergarments. Authorities intervened, preventing the suicide attempt, according to Justice Minister Park Sung Jae, who confirmed the news during a parliamentary committee meeting.
Kim, a close ally of President Yoon Suk Yeol, is accused of playing a central role in recommending martial law to suppress opposition and prevent lawmakers from overturning the president’s declaration. His arrest on Wednesday followed a court-issued warrant, with allegations including rebellion and abuse of power.
Martial Law Controversy
The controversy began when Kim allegedly orchestrated the deployment of armed forces to the National Assembly, South Korea’s Parliament, to block lawmakers from voting to revoke the president’s declaration of martial law. Despite these efforts, legislators managed to access the assembly before dawn on December 4 and lifted the martial law order.
Kim has publicly taken responsibility for the incident, apologizing for the anxiety caused to the public. “All responsibility for the martial law saga rests with me,” he said, pleading for leniency toward the soldiers involved.
Ongoing Investigations and Possible Charges
South Korean prosecutors now have up to 20 days to decide whether to indict Kim. If convicted on charges of rebellion, Kim could face the death penalty under South Korean law. Investigators are also probing the involvement of President Yoon and other high-ranking officials to determine the extent of their culpability in the alleged plot.
President Yoon has faced mounting criticism over the incident. On Saturday, he issued an apology for the “anxiety and inconvenience” caused to the nation but stopped short of resigning. He stated he would leave his political fate to his party while expressing readiness to accept legal and political responsibility.
Public Reaction
The martial law saga has triggered widespread public and political outrage in South Korea, with citizens demanding accountability from the nation’s top leadership. The case highlights growing concerns over abuse of power within the government and has become a pivotal moment for the Yoon administration, as it navigates through one of its most significant scandals.
The investigation continues, with the nation watching closely to see whether justice will be served in this high-profile case.
Sources By Agencies
