Presidential authority appears unconvinced about blocking investigations on former first lady and martial law matters.
Yongsan District, central Seoul, played host to the presidential office as Lee Jae-myung's term began on June 4. [YONHAP]
Investigations Abuzz
Late last week, South Korea's National Assembly, under the Democratic Party's control, pushed through a collection of bills, sparking special investigations into various contentious matters. These encompass the mysterious death of a Marine, the botched attempt at martial law, and accusations against the ex-first lady.
Marine's Tragic End
- Suspicions: Probes are planned for the unfortunate incident involving Corporal Chae Su-geun, who perished during a search operation in July 2023. The ongoing probe will delve into the circumstantial details of his demise and will also scrutinize any presumed meddling by high-ranking officials within the military within the initial inquiry.
- Leading the Investigation: The investigation will be spearheaded by special prosecutors individually nominated by the Democratic Party and the Rebuilding Korea Party.
Failed Martial Law Bid
- Historic Attempt: Former President Yoon Suk Yeol made a valiant, yet unsuccessful attempt to implement martial law in December 2024.
- Charges: With a perspective to uncover the truth, a permanent special counsel will examine 11 counts related to this incident, including alleged planning and execution of an insurrection, foreign manipulation, and mutiny.
- Extensive Scope: The bill, resubmitted after previous rejections, includes a broader range of accusations due to the expanded scope of the investigation.
Ex-First Lady's Allegations
- Controversial Claims: Targeted is the ex-First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, against her stock manipulation allegations and her acceptance of an extravagant bag.
- Expansive Probe: The investigation aims to unravel any alleged wrongdoings pertaining to these allegations, which have been a bone of contention throughout Yoon's presidency.
Legislative Riot
- Unanimous Approval: The bills sailed through with a 194-3 vote, displaying strong support from the Democratic Party.
- Opposition Response: Majority of opposition lawmakers from the People Power Party declined to cast their ballots, expressing concerns over the lack of bipartisan consensus and the unilateral drive by the Democratic Party.
The investigations mark a pivotal shift in South Korea's political landscape following Lee Jae-myung's victory and Yoon's removal from power. Expectant is the president's endorsement and ratification of these bills, paving the way for special prosecutors' appointments.
- Politics is once again at the center of general news, as special investigations are launched to address various controversial matters, such as the death of a Marine, the botched martial law attempt, and allegations against the ex-first lady, following South Korea's National Assembly passing bills under the Democratic Party's control.
- The turbulent period of war-and-conflicts and political instability during Yoon Suk Yeol's presidency is being scrutinized through legislative policy-and-legislation, with special prosecutors examining the ex-first lady's stock manipulation allegations, the mysterious death of a Marine, and the historic attempt at martial law.
