South Korea’s defense ministry has pinpointed about 180 military personnel linked to former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief attempt to impose martial law in late 2024. The ministry intends to take action against them, including disciplinary measures, officials revealed on Thursday.
Following a month-long inquiry involving approximately 860 officers from 24 military commands and units allegedly connected to the martial law declaration in December 2024, the ministry disclosed the number of individuals involved.
Over 100 personnel from various military branches, the ministry, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff participated in the investigation to ascertain the extent of their participation, decision-making authority, and roles in the martial law endeavor, as per the ministry’s statement.
The investigation revealed that the defense intelligence command had premeditated plans to seize control of the state-run election oversight body. Additionally, the defense counterintelligence command and the ministry’s investigative headquarters were found to be involved in efforts to detain key politicians.
In addition to disciplinary actions taken by the ministry, three officers at the general level and five at the colonel level have been formally charged for their significant involvement in the failed martial law attempt, according to reports from Yonhap news agency, citing the Defense Ministry.
Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized the commitment to restoring the military’s reputation and creating a military that serves the people after the announcement of the measures.
The ministry also announced its intention to launch further investigations into allegations concerning the defense counterintelligence and intelligence commands, which were previously restricted due to their confidential responsibilities.
