Prosecutors allege that Kim Yong-hyun conspired in an attempted coup with President Yoon Suk Yeol last week.
Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, accused by prosecutors of proposing last week’s martial law declaration, has attempted suicide while in custody.
Simultaneously, South Korean police conducted a raid on the presidential office on Wednesday, according to Yonhap News Agency.
This search was part of a broader investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial declaration of martial law, which provoked widespread public outrage.
Mr. Kim, who resigned on Thursday, was the first individual arrested in the case on Sunday. Prosecutors assert he recommended the implementation of martial law. Police report that Kim allegedly attempted suicide in a Dongbu Detention Center bathroom in eastern Seoul Tuesday afternoon.
Emergency services responded to a call around 3 pm local time, Yonhap News Agency reported. The former minister reportedly attempted to hang himself and was immediately hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities have not offered a reason for his suicide attempt. A Ministry of National Defense spokesperson stated, “We are closely monitoring the situation and hope for his recovery.”
Kim’s time as defense minister involved significant military reforms and heightened tensions with North Korea. Recently, he faced corruption investigations.
Last Tuesday, President Yoon declared martial law, accusing the opposition of plotting a “rebellion” and displaying sympathy for North Korea.
Lawmakers swiftly voted to revoke the decree, and thousands demonstrated against Yoon’s actions. Yoon subsequently rescinded the decree on Wednesday.
The opposition Democratic Party, holding a parliamentary majority, announced plans to impeach him. Yoon narrowly avoided impeachment when lawmakers from his People Power Party (PPP) boycotted Saturday’s vote.