Official announcements from the South Korean government

Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun Arrested on Treason Charges Over Advising Martial Law

Dec 8, 2024, 12:25 AM

South Korean prosecutors have arrested former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun on treason charges, local media reported. Kim, who resigned Thursday, is alleged to have advised President Yoon Suk-yeol to declare martial law, leading to political turmoil and his resignation. He voluntarily appeared for questioning at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, after which he was arrested. Prosecutors cited the risk of evidence destruction and confiscated his mobile phone. The charges of treason carry a maximum penalty of death.