Kim Yong-hyun, South Korea’s former Defence Minister, allegedly attempted suicide just moments before his formal arrest on charges related to the failed imposition of martial law earlier this month.
Kim, who resigned last Thursday and had been in detention since Sunday, was officially arrested on Tuesday. During a parliamentary hearing, Shin Yong-hae, Commissioner General of the Korea Correctional Service, confirmed that the former minister attempted suicide at the Seoul Dongbu Detention Center shortly before midnight.
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According to officials, Kim tried to hang himself using a string from his clothing in the detention center’s restroom. A Reuters report specified that the material used was from his underwear.
Charges and Investigation
Kim faces serious allegations, including insurrection and abuse of authority, tied to his involvement in President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief and controversial declaration of martial law. The charges against him include “engaging in critical duties during an insurrection” and “abuse of authority to obstruct the exercise of rights.” His arrest was expedited amid concerns that he could destroy evidence pertinent to the investigation.
A court spokesperson stated that Kim’s offenses fell within the scope of crimes warranting prosecution, leading to his formal arrest on Tuesday.
Kim’s Apology to the Public
Through his legal representatives, Kim expressed deep remorse, taking full responsibility for the situation. “All responsibility for this situation lies solely with me,” he stated, adding that his subordinates were merely following orders. He extended an apology to the South Korean people for the turmoil caused by the incident.
Background on Martial Law Declaration
The controversy stems from President Yoon Suk Yeol’s sudden suspension of civilian rule on December 3, accompanied by the deployment of special forces and helicopters to the parliament. This declaration of martial law, unprecedented in South Korea’s democratic era, sparked nationwide unrest and was quickly overturned under pressure from lawmakers.
The political turmoil has since escalated, with South Korean police raiding the President’s office on Wednesday as part of the investigation into the martial law declaration. The failed decree has not only drawn scrutiny toward Yoon’s leadership but also revealed deep fissures within South Korea’s political system.
Kim’s attempted suicide and subsequent arrest underscore the gravity of the allegations, as the nation grapples with the fallout from one of its most significant political crises in recent history.
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