SEOUL: Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun attempted suicide while in custody, following the political fallout from President Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief martial law declaration.
On Wednesday, South Korean police raided the presidential office, part of a widening investigation into Yoon’s controversial decree, which sparked public outrage.
Kim, detained Sunday, is the first figure arrested in the case. He allegedly recommended the martial law and resigned Thursday.
Kim’s suicide attempt occurred before a formal arrest warrant was issued, but he was moved to isolation and is in stable condition.
Yoon, facing potential insurrection charges, has been barred from leaving the country as political pressure mounts.
President Yoon survived an impeachment vote, but opposition lawmakers are preparing a new motion with a vote expected soon.