South Korean media reported that the police and prosecutors in South Korea began to investigate President Yoon Seok-yul,who tried to impose martial law in the country.
The police said they had formed a special examination team wiht 120 members to investigate 4 complaints accusing the president and other officials of treason, rebellion and abuse of power in connection with the imposition and subsequent lifting of martial law..
“An investigation headquarters, headed by the Seoul Supreme Public Prosecutor’s Office, has been formed to look into similar complaints,” the prosecutor’s office said.
For his part, the leader of the ruling People’s power Party, Han Dong-hoon, asked at an emergency meeting of the party’s Supreme Council in the National Assembly in Seoul to promptly suspend the powers of the country’s president.
he explained that it was confirmed on Thursday night thru reliable factual evidence that President Yoon ordered counter-intelligence chief Yoo In-hyung to arrest senior politicians on the grounds that they were anti-state forces on the day martial law was declared on tuesday, and that the president mobilized the intelligence services to arrest the politicians.
Han also said that he believes that if President Yoon continues to fulfill his duties as the country’s president, there is great concern that such extreme actions, such as the declaration of martial law, will be carried out.
In a related context, South Korea’s Vice Defense Minister Kim Sung Ho promised that the Ministry of Defense would not follow through on the order to reimpose martial law even if it were issued.
Kim seung-ho, who is currently serving as Defense Minister due to the former minister’s resignation, said: “The allegations that the second martial law was declared this morning are not in line with reality, Even if there are claims to declare arms law, the Ministry of Defense and the General staff will not accept them.”
Source: Agencies
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How might the ongoing investigations impact public trust in south Korea’s government?
Exclusive Interview: south Korea’s Political Turmoil Amid Martial Law Controversy
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today. As we delve into the unfolding situation in South Korea surrounding President Yoon Seok-yul‘s controversial attempt to impose martial law, we’re grateful to have political analyst Dr. Min-Jae Park with us. Dr. Park, can you summarize the key developments regarding President Yoon and the ongoing investigations?
Dr. Min-Jae Park: Absolutely, it’s a tumultuous time in South Korea. Reports indicate that both police and prosecutors have initiated a serious investigation into President Yoon Seok-yul for accusations of treason, rebellion, and abuse of power concerning his attempt to declare martial law. A special examination team,comprising 120 members,has been formed to scrutinize four specific complaints against him,reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Editor: That’s important. How are these allegations affecting the political landscape in South korea?
Dr. Park: The political ramifications are profound. The leader of the ruling People’s Power Party, Han Dong-hoon, has called for the suspension of the president’s powers, which underscores a deepening crisis within the government. Han has also cited credible evidence indicating that President Yoon mobilized intelligence services to detain political opponents, which raises ample concerns about the abuse of power and democratic integrity.
Editor: In light of these events, what are the implications for South Korea’s governance and public trust?
Dr. Park: The implications are twofold. Firstly, there’s a risk of exacerbating political polarization. If the ruling party and opposition fail to manage this crisis collaboratively, it could lead to widespread civil unrest. secondly, public trust is at stake. Citizens will closely monitor how their leaders respond.actions perceived as overreach or authoritarian—like the declaration of martial law—could erode faith in the government.Ultimately, this situation will test the resilience of South Korea’s democratic institutions.
Editor: Vice Defense Minister Kim Sung-ho recently pledged that the Ministry of Defense would not enforce any re-imposition of martial law. What does this signify in the context of civil-military relations?
Dr. Park: This statement from Vice Defense Minister Kim is pivotal as it indicates a potential divide between civilian leadership and military governance. His announcement signals a commitment to uphold democratic principles, which is essential for maintaining civil-military relations in a healthy framework. If military officials openly resist martial law, it acts as a crucial check on executive power, reinforcing the notion that military forces should remain apolitical and serve the nation’s democratic ideals.
Editor: What advice would you offer to citizens who are seeking clarity and guidance in this complicated scenario?
Dr.Park: My advice for citizens is to stay informed and engaged. Understanding your rights and the political climate is crucial. Participation in peaceful discourse, whether through community discussions or public forums, can amplify voices calling for accountability. Moreover, keep an eye on developments from credible news sources and governmental notifications. The situation can evolve rapidly,and being proactive rather than reactive is key in such turbulent times.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Park, for your insights into this pressing issue.Your expertise helps shed light on the complexities of the ongoing investigations and their broader implications for South Korea.
Dr. Min-Jae Park: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we keep the dialog going as this situation unfolds, as the outcomes will shape the future of South Korea’s democracy.
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