South Korea’s Police Chiefs Arrested in Martial Law Investigation

Two of South Korea’s top police officers have been arrested as part of an investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol’s recent martial law declaration. This news comes just before the main opposition party, the Democratic Party, plans to vote on a new impeachment motion against Yoon.

Last week, Yoon’s former defense minister, Kim Yong Hyun, was also arrested. He is accused of leading the effort to enforce martial law and misusing power. Kim is the first person arrested related to the martial law situation from December 3.

The police chiefs, Cho Ji Ho and Kim Bong-sik, are being held at a police station in Seoul. They are under investigation for sending police to block members of parliament from entering to vote against the martial law decree. Armed troops were also sent to the parliament but were unable to stop lawmakers from rejecting the martial law quickly.

During a hearing, Army Special Warfare Command chief Kwak Jong-keun said that he received direct orders from Kim Yong Hyun to stop lawmakers from entering Parliament. Yoon reportedly also called Kwak and asked to remove lawmakers forcefully. Although they discussed the orders, taking physical action against lawmakers was ruled out.

An officer from the military’s intelligence unit shared that his superior asked if there was a place to detain political figures after martial law was declared. Meanwhile, the opposition argues that the martial law was illegal, as it can only be declared in times of war or severe emergencies. In Yoon’s announcement, he called for a need to fight against his political rivals.

Many believe this unfolding situation could lead to Yoon being impeached. If that happens, his powers would be paused until a court decides his fate. If removed, a new election would be held.

North Korea’s state news agency took notice of the protests happening in South Korea, using harsh words against Yoon, labeling him a “traitor.” This indicates that North Korea is aware of the unrest, which could inspire its own people who lack access to outside news.