South Korean prosecutors have arrested former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun over allegations of his involvement in President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law, according to Yonhap News Agency. The arrest follows an ongoing investigation into the controversial suspension of civilian rule earlier in the week.
Kim voluntarily appeared before the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office early on Sunday morning at 1:30 am local time (1630 GMT Saturday) for questioning. The prosecution’s special investigative team is examining his role in the unprecedented move, which has drawn widespread criticism domestically and internationally. A travel ban has also been imposed on Kim as the investigation continues.
Investigation and Political Fallout
The martial law declaration has triggered a series of investigations, including treason charges against President Yoon and several top government officials. National police and prosecutors are working collaboratively to address public outrage and opposition claims of unlawful actions by the administration.
Kim had stepped down as defence minister shortly after the suspension of civilian governance on Tuesday night, an event that further escalated political unrest in the country.
President Yoon Survives Impeachment Vote
Amid the turmoil, President Yoon Suk-yeol narrowly avoided impeachment after opposition parties initiated a motion against him. The impeachment vote was effectively blocked by a near-total boycott from members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP).
Following the vote, the PPP released a statement defending their decision to avoid impeachment, citing the need to prevent “severe division and chaos” in the nation. Party representatives pledged to address the crisis “in a more orderly and responsible manner.”
Opposition Pledges Renewed Efforts
Opposition lawmakers and protesters have vowed to intensify efforts to remove Yoon from office. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the opposition Democratic Party, declared his determination to proceed with a second impeachment motion as early as Wednesday.
“I will impeach Yoon Suk-yeol, who has become the worst risk for South Korea, at any cost,” Lee stated, adding that the opposition would continue mobilising protests in the coming days.
Yoon Apologises for Crisis
President Yoon, 63, addressed the public on Tuesday in a televised statement, apologising for the turmoil caused by the declaration of martial law. This was his first public appearance in three days.
“I caused anxiety and inconvenience to the public. I sincerely apologize,” Yoon said. He added that he would leave it to the People Power Party to determine his political fate and explore measures to stabilize the country’s political situation.
Despite his apology, divisions within the PPP have become increasingly evident. Party head Han Dong-hoon, who was reportedly listed for arrest on Tuesday night, called for Yoon’s resignation. Only three PPP lawmakers ultimately cast their votes during the impeachment motion: Ahn Cheol-soo, Kim Yea-ji, and Kim Sang-wook.
Public Demonstrations Continue
Protesters continue to take to the streets, demanding accountability from the administration. Demonstrations are expected to grow over the weekend as dissatisfaction mounts over the government’s handling of the crisis.
The political and legal consequences of the martial law declaration are likely to dominate South Korea’s landscape in the coming weeks, with the nation bracing for further instability.
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