Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who is at the center of a major political scandal, tried to take his own life while in detention. The shocking event happened shortly after Kim was arrested over his role in proposing a controversial martial law declaration that shook the country.
Kim was detained on Sunday as part of an investigation into the martial law decree declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol last Tuesday. Prosecutors say Kim recommended that the government impose martial law, accusing opposition lawmakers of supporting rebellion and being too friendly with North Korea. This dramatic move quickly sparked public anger. Thousands of South Koreans took to the streets in protest, and lawmakers voted to lift the martial law decree just a day after it was announced. The public outrage continued, with calls for impeachment and demands for accountability.
Kim, who had been serving as the defense minister until his resignation last Thursday, tried to end his life on Tuesday afternoon at the Dongbu Detention Center in Seoul. Police reported that Kim attempted to hang himself in a bathroom, and emergency services were called around 3 p.m. Kim was found in critical condition and rushed to a hospital.
Authorities have not revealed the exact reason for his suicide attempt, but it has added more drama to the already tense situation surrounding the martial law controversy. The South Korean Ministry of National Defense has said they are closely monitoring Kim’s health and are hoping for his recovery.
Kim’s time as defense minister had already been under scrutiny due to his involvement in military reforms and investigations into possible corruption. His actions during this crisis have further damaged his reputation and raised questions about his motives. Meanwhile, President Yoon, who made the controversial decision to declare martial law, quickly canceled it after facing severe backlash. Despite the chaos, Yoon narrowly avoided impeachment after lawmakers from his own party refused to participate in a vote that could have removed him from office.
The situation remains fluid, with many wondering how far this scandal will go and what it means for South Korea’s future political landscape. The investigation is still ongoing, and with new details emerging every day, this story is far from over.
