Ex-Minister Arrested in Martial Law Probe

Seoul Court Orders Custody for Alleged Conspiracy

A former government minister has been arrested in connection with an alleged illegal martial law plot, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation. The move signals a deepening probe into the actions of high-ranking officials during a period of heightened political tension.

Former Minister Detained

Lee Sang-min, formerly the Minister of Public Administration and Security, was taken into custody early this morning following a court decision. He faces charges including rebellion, abuse of power, and perjury related to his alleged involvement in the “12/3 illegal martial law.”

The Seoul Central District Court cited a strong possibility that Lee committed the alleged offenses and expressed concern about potential evidence destruction. This is the second arrest of a state minister in connection with the martial law allegations, following the earlier detention of former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun.

Prosecutors Detail Allegations

The special prosecutors’ team presented extensive evidence, including a 160-page presentation and CCTV footage from council meetings on the day martial law was declared. They also submitted statements from four media organizations, including Hankyoreh and MBC, which allegedly targeted by Lee for specific media controls.

Prosecutors contend that Lee, as minister, actively supported the martial law directive and failed to prevent its implementation. They specifically highlighted alleged instructions from former President Yoon Seok-yeol to control media outlets, painting Lee as a co-conspirator in the alleged plot.

Furthermore, Lee is accused of lying during an impeachment trial, denying any attempts to control media or having received relevant instructions from the president. Prosecutors argue this constitutes perjury and necessitates his arrest to prevent further evidence tampering.

In 2023, South Korea’s Constitutional Court upheld the dismissal of President Park Geun-hye, a case that involved public protests and significant political upheaval, offering context to the sensitivity surrounding allegations of martial law manipulation (Reuters, 2017).

Minister’s Defense

Before his arrest, Lee reportedly told reporters that he would fully cooperate with the interrogation. His defense is expected to argue that any instructions regarding media controls were outside his ministerial authority and that such measures were not actually implemented. He is also anticipated to contest the grounds for his arrest, particularly the fear of evidence destruction.

Broader Implications

The court’s decision to issue the arrest warrant is seen as a potential catalyst for further investigations into other state council members implicated in the martial law affair, including former Prime Minister Han Duk-soo. The charge of rebellion, when applied to individuals playing significant roles, carries severe penalties.

With Lee now in custody, the special prosecutors’ team plans to intensify their investigation into the extent of his involvement and that of other officials. They are also reportedly examining circumstances surrounding the lifting of martial law and discussions held at the presidential residence.