Janice R. Andrews
South Korea’s police announced on Dec. 9 that they are following standard procedures in their investigation into the emergency martial law case, which includes the potential arrest and search of President Yoon Suk-yeol. Officials indicated that they are reviewing the possibility of imposing a travel ban on the president.
Investigation Targets Senior Officials
On Dec. 3, authorities revealed plans to summon witnesses as part of their inquiry into the case, which implicates 11 prominent figures, including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, former Interior and Safety Minister Lee Sang-min, and Army Chief of Staff Park An-soo. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is not under investigation, but other key individuals, such as National Police Commissioner General Cho Ji-ho and People Power Party Representative Choo Kyung-ho, have been named.
To date, five complaints have been filed in connection to the case, which involves allegations of treason and abuse of power. Woo Jong-soo, the head of the National Investigation Division at the National Police Agency, stressed the importance of the case, saying, “As the lead body in treason investigations, we are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial probe based on law and principles.”
Scrutiny of Martial Law Decision-Making
The investigation focuses on the decision-making process behind the declaration of emergency martial law, its effects on the National Assembly, and the actions of law enforcement agencies. Police emphasized their jurisdiction over treason cases and pledged to conduct a comprehensive review.
On Dec. 8, investigators conducted searches at the office and residence of former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, seizing materials, including a mobile phone, which is currently under forensic examination. However, police have not confirmed whether the phone was used during the martial law period.
“Our main objective is to verify the allegations through careful analysis of the materials and phone records we have collected,” Woo explained.
Possibility of Additional Charges
As the investigation progresses, authorities have indicated that additional charges, such as foreign instigation, could be brought against President Yoon and others involved.
“The president is currently facing accusations of treason and abuse of power,” a police spokesperson noted. “New charges may be introduced, or existing charges could be amended, depending on the evidence we uncover.”
The investigation has also brought to light allegations from Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, who claimed that former Defense Minister Kim had authorized direct strikes on balloon bomb sources, which could potentially amount to foreign instigation under South Korean criminal law.
Far-Right Allegations Denied
During a press briefing, police were asked about potential connections between President Yoon and far-right YouTubers. In response, an official said, “We have not received any reports regarding this matter and have no information to provide at this time.”
Collaboration Between Agencies
The investigation has sparked competition among South Korea’s police, the prosecution, and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), all of which are involved in the case. Despite the overlap of responsibilities, police emphasized their jurisdiction over treason cases and their commitment to a fair investigation.
“We will closely examine the decision-making behind the martial law declaration, its impact on democratic institutions, and the actions of the involved agencies,” Woo said, highlighting the complexity of the case.
Potential Political Repercussions
The ongoing investigation and the possibility of a travel ban on President Yoon have led to heightened political scrutiny. As the investigation continues, the results could have far-reaching consequences for President Yoon’s leadership and South Korea’s political landscape.
With developments continuing to unfold, all eyes remain on the authorities as they move forward with this high-stakes investigation.
