South Korean prosecutors detained former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun on Sunday over his alleged role in recommending martial law to President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking the first detention in this high-profile case.
Kim was taken into custody after voluntarily appearing for questioning at a Seoul prosecutors’ office. Authorities reportedly confiscated his phone and searched his former office and home. Senior prosecutor Park Se-hyun announced the formation of a 62-member special team to thoroughly investigate the martial law case, which has sparked national controversy.
Last week, Yoon’s brief martial law declaration saw military forces encircle the National Assembly. The decree was rescinded after unanimous parliamentary opposition, leading to Yoon accepting Kim’s resignation. Opposition parties, calling the move an unconstitutional rebellion, have filed complaints against multiple officials, including Yoon.
Amid low approval ratings and ongoing political challenges, Yoon apologized for the martial law imposition, vowing not to evade accountability. Meanwhile, protests demanding his ouster continue to grow, deepening South Korea’s political instability.
The Democratic Party has pledged a renewed impeachment effort, intensifying pressure on Yoon, who has faced scandals and criticism throughout his presidency. The controversy has also raised concerns among South Korea’s international allies, including the U.S. and Japan.
