Official announcement from the South Korean National Assembly

South Korea's Yoon Suk Yeol Investigated Over Failed Martial Law; Ex-Defense Minister Kim Attempts Suicide

Dec 11, 2024, 02:31 PM

South Korean police have attempted to search President Yoon Suk Yeol's office in connection with his recent declaration of martial law on December 3, but were prevented from entering the main building by security officials. The investigation comes amid escalating political turmoil following Yoon's failed attempt to impose martial law at 10:25 p.m., which has sparked mass protests demanding his ouster and the dismantling of his political party. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, the first high-ranking official arrested over the martial law declaration, has been detained on charges of insurrection and abuse of power. Kim attempted suicide in his detention cell's bathroom by fashioning a makeshift noose from clothing. The chief prosecutor leading the investigation stated he would not hesitate to arrest President Yoon for insurrection if warranted. The South Korean parliament has approved a special investigation against Yoon with 210 votes in favor, 63 against, and 14 abstentions, and is set to vote on an impeachment bill on Saturday. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un criticized Yoon, calling him a 'puppet' who tried to unleash a 'fascist dictatorship' on South Korea.