Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun's detention takes a dramatic turn in the aftermath of South Korea's failed martial law implementation.
According to Breitbart News, Kim attempted to take his own life on Tuesday night while in police detention at the Seoul Dongbu Detention Center, just hours before his formal arrest announcement.
The incident occurred after Kim's resignation last Thursday, making him the first high-ranking official to lose his position following President Yoon Suk-yeol's controversial martial law declaration. Chief Corrections Officer Shin Yong-hae confirmed that the suicide attempt was prevented, and Kim is now under isolation and observation.
The investigation has revealed disturbing details about the extent of the planned martial law implementation. Army Special Warfare commander Kwak Jong-keun's testimony exposed direct orders from Kim to prevent legislators from assembling and overturning the martial law order.
Military counterintelligence commander Kim Dae-woo provided additional testimony, revealing that his superior, Yeo In-hyung, had inquired about potentially detaining lawmakers in a Seoul army bunker. These revelations have led to the suspension of both Kwak and Yeo, who now face possible rebellion charges.
Kim issued a statement taking full responsibility for the crisis and apologizing for causing public anxiety. He also requested leniency for soldiers who were following his orders during the incident.
President Yoon Suk-yeol's administration faces increasing pressure as the investigation expands. The president has been banned from international travel and hasn't been seen in public since Saturday.
Law enforcement officials executed a raid on Yoon's office Wednesday, armed with a search warrant that named him as a suspect. The president's immunity from prosecution does not extend to charges of rebellion or treason.
The National Assembly, controlled by the opposition Democratic Party, has launched a formal investigation into the crisis. Yoon faces another impeachment vote on Saturday, with some members of his own People Power Party considering supporting the motion.
The aftermath of the martial law attempt has resulted in multiple high-profile arrests. National Police chief Cho Ji-ho and Seoul Police chief Kim Bong-sik have been taken into custody alongside Kim Yong-hyun.
Kim's formal arrest on Wednesday gives prosecutors twenty days to decide on indictment. The charges of rebellion and abuse of power could potentially carry the death penalty. Kim apparently attempted suicide using clothing items before his formal arrest announcement. The incident highlights the severe pressure facing officials involved in martial law implementation.
Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun's suicide attempt in detention marks a critical point in South Korea's ongoing political crisis stemming from President Yoon Suk-yeol's failed martial law implementation. The incident occurred at the Seoul Dongbu Detention Center, where Kim was being held on charges of rebellion and abuse of power.
The crisis continues to expand, with multiple high-ranking officials under investigation and arrest. President Yoon faces a crucial impeachment vote on Saturday while prosecutors work to determine charges against Kim and other detained officials. The outcome of these proceedings could reshape South Korea's political landscape and set precedents for handling future constitutional crises.
