Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun has reportedly attempted suicide. Kim was recently arrested on sedition charges.
The incident occurred at a detention center in eastern Seoul, according to Interfax and the Yonhap news agency.
“Kim Yong Hyun attempted to take his own life at the detention facility, where he is being held on charges related to the earlier imposition of martial law,” stated the report. The information was disclosed during parliamentary hearings by a representative of the correctional institution.
Kim was formally arrested on Wednesday, accused of aiding President Yun Suk-yeol in staging a coup and inciting unrest to undermine the national constitution. The allegations stem from a brief imposition of martial law, which has drawn significant political and public scrutiny.
Prosecutors issued an arrest warrant for Kim, citing his “major actions” in facilitating the coup and allegations of abusing his authority.
In a dramatic turn, President Yun Suk-yeol has also been named a suspect in the case and is currently prohibited from leaving the country.
While South Korean law grants immunity to the sitting head of state from prosecution except in cases of rebellion, the investigation has intensified, bringing unprecedented political turmoil.
As part of the ongoing investigation, police conducted searches at the presidential office and police headquarters on Wednesday.
According to Yonhap, the president was not present at his office during the searches.
