South Korea's ex-defense minister is formally arrested over brief imposition of martial law
South Korea's previous defense minister has been formally arrested over his alleged collusion with President Yoon Suk Yeol and others in imposing martial law last week
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's previous defense minister was formally arrested Wednesday over his alleged collusion with President Yoon Suk Yeol and others in imposing martial law last week, as authorities investigate whether their acts amount to rebellion.
Martial law, the first in more than 40 years, lasted only about six hours but triggered a domestic firestorm and large street protests. Yoon and his associates face criminal investigations and impeachment attempts. The Justice Ministry has banned Yoon and eight others from leaving the country as authorities see them as key suspects. It’s the first time a sitting president in South Korea has received a travel ban.
The Seoul Central District Court said it approved an arrest warrant for former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun on allegations of playing a key role in rebellion and committing abuse of power, making him the first person arrested over the Dec. 3 martial law decree. The court said it considered the significance of his alleged crime and chances that he could destroy evidence.
Kim, one of Yoon’s close associates, resigned Thursday and has been detained since Sunday. Prosecutors have up to 20 days to determine whether to indict him. A conviction on the charge of rebellion carries a maximum death sentence.
