SEOUL: In a dramatic turn of events, Kim Yong-hyun, the former South Korean defense minister and a close ally of President Yoon Suk Yeol, became the first top government official to be arrested in connection with Yoon's controversial martial law declaration. The arrest, which occurred late on December 10, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, especially after reports emerged that Kim attempted to take his own life while detained.

Who is Kim Yong-hyun?

Born in 1959 in Masan, a coastal city in southeastern South Korea, Kim Yong-hyun carved a distinguished career in the military before transitioning to politics. After graduating from the prestigious Korea Military Academy in 1978, he rose through the ranks to become a three-star general by 2017. His past roles included capital defense commander and chief of operations at the Joint Chiefs of Staff, underscoring his significant influence and expertise in national security.

In September 2022, Kim was appointed as South Korea's defense minister after serving as the inaugural minister of presidential security service under Yoon’s administration. Known for his hardline stance on North Korea, Kim warned during his first address as defense chief that Kim Jong Un’s regime would face a “horrendous price” for any provocations, framing his approach as one of deterrence against the North’s aggressive policies.

The Controversial Relationship with President Yoon

Kim's close ties to President Yoon are well-documented. They both attended Chungam High School in Seoul, forming a bond that has been influential in Yoon's rise to power. This school connection is cited as a reason for Kim's prominent role within what opposition lawmakers have dubbed the “Chungam faction”—a tight-knit circle of Yoon’s trusted advisors, including the now-resigned interior minister, Lee Sang-min.

Kim’s influence, however, has come crashing down as his involvement in the martial law declaration has raised serious concerns and accusations of insurrection. His assertion during his confirmation hearings that there was no plan for martial law is now in direct contradiction to his actions.

The Martial Law Attempt

Events spiraled on December 3 when Yoon called an urgent cabinet meeting where Kim suggested the imposition of martial law. This meeting became infamous for its suddenness and the gravity of the proposal. Testimonies from military officials reveal that just days earlier, on December 1, Kim had purportedly ordered troops to seize critical locations such as the National Assembly and opposition party headquarters.

The suggestion of martial law has been met with widespread backlash, with many viewing Kim’s actions as proof of an alarming power grab by Yoon’s administration. Opponents have condemned him, claiming that these actions reflect a dangerous escalation in political maneuvering that undermines democratic principles.

What Now for Kim Yong-hyun?

Since his arrest, Kim has faced severe consequences. He is currently under investigation for various charges, including insurrection and abuse of power. Authorities have prevented him from leaving the country, and he was detained following a court's approval of an arrest warrant.

Tragically, just before the warrant was issued, Kim attempted suicide using items from his own clothing while in a detention center in Seoul. Fortunately, officials confirmed he is no longer in immediate danger. In a statement conveyed through his lawyer, Kim expressed remorse for the turmoil caused and accepted full responsibility, declaring, “All responsibilities for this crisis lie solely with me.”

The unfolding situation poses significant implications for South Korea's political stability, as the public and the media watch closely to see how the current government will respond to these unprecedented challenges. More information is likely to emerge that could reshape the understanding of the Yoon administration's approach to dissent and governance. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops!