11-12-2024 (SEOUL) In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through South Korea’s political establishment, former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun attempted to take his own life whilst in detention, intensifying the already volatile situation surrounding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial martial law declaration.
Kim, who was formally arrested on charges of insurrection and abuse of authority, made the attempt shortly after being taken into custody. The incident occurred as authorities launched sweeping raids across major government institutions, including the Yongsan Presidential Office and key police facilities, in what observers describe as the most significant political investigation in recent South Korean history.
The unprecedented development has seen President Yoon become the first sitting South Korean leader to face a travel ban, alongside eight other high-ranking officials. This extraordinary measure underscores the gravity of an investigation that has gripped the nation and thrown the government into disarray.
Sources close to the investigation reveal that Kim’s arrest warrant was approved by the Seoul Central District Court amid concerns over potential evidence tampering. The former minister, who tendered his resignation just before his detention began on Sunday, now faces a possible death penalty if convicted of rebellion charges.
The crisis stems from a brief but contentious period of martial law – the first imposed in South Korea in more than four decades – which lasted merely six hours but triggered massive public demonstrations. Prosecutors now have 20 days to determine whether to proceed with formal charges against Kim, whose close association with President Yoon has fuelled speculation about the extent of the president’s involvement in the declaration.
