Former Defense Minister's Suicide Attempt Escalates South Korea's Political Crisis

South Korean police conducted a raid on President Yoon Suk Yeol's office in Seoul on Wednesday as part of an escalating investigation into his controversial martial law declaration. The raid followed intense political upheaval after Yoon's attempt to impose martial law on December 3, which was quickly reversed by parliament. This marks the first time in over 40 years that martial law was considered in South Korea. Yoon's decision has sparked widespread political fallout, with critics accusing him of attempting to seize power unlawfully.

The investigation is intensifying, with authorities now focusing on possible charges of rebellion against those involved in the decree, including Yoon and his close associates. Kim Yong-hyun, the former defense minister and key figure in the martial law plan, was arrested early Wednesday on charges related to his role in the attempted power grab. Kim has also been accused of deploying troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from voting on the decree. Kim's arrest came after he was found in a failed suicide attempt while in detention. Officials confirmed he is now in stable condition.

Despite the backlash, President Yoon has remained defiant. He recently apologized for the martial law announcement and has pledged not to shy away from legal or political responsibility. However, his political future is uncertain, as opposition parties, led by the Democratic Party, have submitted motions to impeach him. The first impeachment motion failed when ruling party lawmakers boycotted the vote. The opposition's second attempt is set to challenge Yoon's authority, accusing him of undermining South Korea's constitution.

The national mood has been one of uncertainty. Protesters continue to take to the streets, demanding Yoon's resignation. Experts suggest that the growing pressure from both the public and lawmakers could force Yoon’s impeachment sooner rather than later, though the situation remains fluid. Investigators have expanded their efforts to trace the origins of the martial law order, with 18 officers sent to Yoon's office to collect relevant records. Despite not being in his office during the raid, Yoon’s involvement in the events is under intense scrutiny.

In addition to the domestic political crisis, the martial law attempt has caused significant disruptions in South Korea’s foreign policy and financial markets, weakening Yoon’s ability to navigate the country through turbulent times. The search of Yoon's office represents a dramatic escalation, signaling that the investigation is advancing quickly. South Korean authorities, including the National Police Agency, are examining whether Yoon and others involved in the martial law decree violated the law by inciting rebellion, a charge that carries severe penalties.

As political tensions mount, calls for Yoon’s removal from office continue, with impeachment proceedings likely to take center stage. If Yoon is impeached, his powers would be temporarily suspended until a Constitutional Court ruling. Should he be dismissed, a new election would be required to fill the presidential vacancy, adding another layer of uncertainty to South Korea’s political landscape.

Sources:

• NPR
• BBC