Former South Korean Defense Minister attempts suicide amid arrest

Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun reportedly attempted suicide just hours before his formal arrest in connection with the controversial December 3 martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk Yeol, Yonhap News Agency reported Wednesday.

The Seoul Central District Court issued an arrest warrant for Kim on charges of aiding an insurrection and abusing his authority. Prosecutors allege that Kim played a significant role in advising Yoon to declare martial law, a move that was swiftly rescinded following intense backlash from lawmakers and the public.

Kim’s arrest is the first major legal development in the investigation into the failed martial law operation. Under South Korean law, those found guilty of leading an insurrection can face the death penalty or life imprisonment. Participants in planning or conducting “significant” activities related to an insurrection face similar punishments.

Kim, who resigned from his post on Thursday, was detained on December 8. The former minister has been accused of convening military commanders and issuing readiness orders to the armed forces as part of the martial law plan.

Yoon’s controversial martial law declaration

On the night of December 3, President Yoon appeared on national television, announcing martial law, citing alleged “anti-state activities” by the opposition. The declaration involved deploying soldiers and helicopters to the National Assembly, with reports indicating that troops entered the parliament building.

Yoon defended his actions, claiming the move aimed to “eliminate pro-North Korean forces and protect constitutional order.” However, the National Assembly swiftly held an emergency session, voting overwhelmingly to nullify the declaration with 190 members in favor. The martial law decree became void following Cabinet approval of the Assembly’s decision.

Faced with mounting pressure, Yoon rescinded the order and convened the Cabinet to formally end martial law. Despite this reversal, investigations into the episode have intensified. Prosecutors are examining potential charges of treason against Yoon, who now faces a travel ban and calls for his immediate detention.

The martial law incident has plunged South Korea into political turmoil, with critics accusing the administration of overstepping democratic norms. The opposition has condemned Yoon’s actions as an unprecedented attack on the rule of law, calling for accountability at the highest levels of government.