Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, at the center of a political storm following a brief martial law declaration, has attempted suicide while in detention, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. Kim, who was arrested on Sunday over his role in advocating for the martial law decree on December 3, tried to take his life before a formal arrest warrant was issued. The incident occurred in a detention center bathroom but was interrupted by a corrections officer. Kim is now in stable condition in an isolation room.
This comes amid a growing political crisis sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration, which accused the opposition of ties to North Korea and anti-state activities. The decree was quickly overturned after lawmakers defied military efforts to block the National Assembly, forcing Yoon to back down.
Kim, who resigned after the incident, admitted responsibility for the military’s actions during the crisis. Following the controversy, three senior military officials involved in the martial law attempt have been suspended. Meanwhile, investigations into Yoon and other officials for potential insurrection are underway, with opposition lawmakers calling for the president’s impeachment.
The martial law declaration, South Korea’s first in four decades, was a response to frustrations over the opposition-controlled National Assembly blocking Yoon’s policies. Critics have condemned it as an excessive and unjustified measure. The situation remains fluid, with new developments expected.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE