South Korea’s presidential office raided amid martial law investigation

New Delhi, Dec 11: South Korea is facing a political crisis after a failed attempt by President Yoon Suk Yeol last week to impose martial law. The fallout has led to high-profile resignations, investigations, and public unrest.

Former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who took responsibility for the declaration, attempted suicide while in detention, officials confirmed. Kim was found late Tuesday night and is receiving treatment, according to Shin Yong-hae, the head of the justice ministry’s correctional agency. He had resigned and was detained Sunday as part of the ongoing investigation into the martial law order.

Raids on the Presidential Office

Authorities raided the presidential office this week as part of the investigation. Police, prosecutors, and anti-corruption officials are scrutinising President Yoon and his allies, who face charges of insurrection. A travel ban has been imposed on several officials. According to local reports, Yoon’s security team was not informed of the raid beforehand. This marks the first search of a president’s office since 2019, though at that time, materials were handed over voluntarily.

Eighteen investigators searched for records related to a cabinet meeting held the night of the martial law declaration.

President Yoon, one of the suspects listed on the warrant, was not in his office during the raid.

Meanwhile, protests continue nationwide, with many demanding Yoon’s resignation. Workers have also joined the demonstrations, striking in Seoul to voice their discontent. Yoon has apologised for the martial law attempt but has resisted calls to step down.

An impeachment vote last weekend failed after lawmakers from Yoon’s ruling People Power Party boycotted the session. The opposition plans to hold another vote this Saturday and has vowed to keep pushing until Yoon leaves office. The opposition holds a parliamentary majority.

The political turmoil has left South Korea’s leadership in question. Han Dong-hoon, the leader of Yoon’s party, announced that the president would step back from state affairs while a transition plan for his early departure is being organised. Even though Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is presently overseeing the government operations, Yoon still retains command of the armed forces. This ensures he can respond to foreign policy threats, including any potential aggression from North Korea.

Media also reported that Yoon’s approval ratings were as low as 13 per cent and were even lower ahead of imposing martial law. The situation remains fluid, with tensions high and the next impeachment vote looming.