South Korea has experienced a highly controversial episode concerning failed martial law, especially after former Defence Minister Kim Yong-Hyun attempted suicide using underwear. He is under immense scrutiny along with President Yoon Suk Yeol about their roles in the suspected rebellion. The authorities blamed Kim for recommending martial law to President Yoon and sending military forces to barricade lawmakers from voting on overruling the order.
Kim was arrested on Wednesday over a court-issued warrant with claims that he was responsible for planning the failed attempt. During the investigation, Kim attempted to kill himself by hanging using his underwear at a detention center; however, he was prevented from doing this by officers. Justice Minister Park Sung Jae revealed the information during a parliamentary meeting.
Kim attempted suicide after failed martial law, but was saved
The crisis occurred on December 4, when parliamentarians met to reverse the failed martial law attempt by South Korea. Despite the military presence, Parliament managed to reverse the declaration before sunrise. Kim has since apologized for his actions, taking full responsibility for deploying soldiers and urging leniency for them.
Legal and political consequences loom large. Investigative agencies are now assessing whether President Yoon and his associates committed “rebellion,” a charge that carries the death penalty in South Korea. On Saturday, President Yoon apologized for the distress caused but resisted calls for resignation. He left his political future in the hands of his party, which has begun planning for his potential exit.
Amid the aftermath of South Korea’s failed martial law attempt, government party leaders are pushing hard to ensure a smooth transition. Cabinet members are preparing to manage national affairs with Yoon expected to be sidelined from governance.
The political scandal raises not only the question of abuse of power but also of democratic stability in South Korea. It’s interesting how, as this case deepens into one of South Korea’s most shocking political scandals, the country awaits how accountability will be implemented.
Also, see: South Korean stock market declines during Trump’s presidency