Will South Korea's Special Counsel Question Ex-Marine Chief in Death Investigation?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, South Korea's special counsel is set to summon a former Marine Corps commander next week as part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic death of a Marine. This inquiry raises pressing questions about potential interference by high-ranking officials.
Key Takeaways
- Special counsel to question former Marine Corps leaders.
- Investigation focuses on military's response to a Marine's death.
- Allegations of interference by high-ranking officials.
- Exit bans imposed on key figures.
- Calls for accountability within the military.
Seoul, July 4 (NationPress) A special counsel team announced on Friday that it will call upon a former high-ranking Marine Corps commander for questioning next week as part of its inquiry into the military's handling of the 2023 death of a Marine.
The team has instructed former Marine Corps Commandant Kim Kye-hwan to report on Monday regarding allegations that senior officials, including former President Yoon Suk Yeol, obstructed a military investigation concerning the demise of Cpl. Chae Su-geun, who tragically lost his life after being swept away by a flooded stream while searching for victims of torrential rains in July 2023.
Kim has confirmed his attendance for the questioning, which will delve into directives he received from then Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup and the presidential office, as shared by an assistant special prosecutor during a press briefing reported by Yonhap news agency.
On Thursday, the special counsel team instituted new exit bans on both Kim and Lim Seong-geun, the former commander of the 1st Marine Division to which Chae was assigned.
Lim faced interrogation by special prosecutors on Wednesday regarding alleged professional negligence linked to Chae's death.
Earlier on Thursday, the special counsel team declared a new exit ban on former Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup as part of its investigation into the military's response to the Marine's death in 2023.
The team, directed by special counsel Lee Myeong-hyeon, has also barred both former Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Kim Kye-hwan and Lim Seong-geun from leaving the country while the inquiry continues, as announced during a press briefing.
All three individuals had previously been subjected to exit bans by the prosecution and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, but the special counsel team has renewed these measures following the transfer of the case to them.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the sensitivity and importance of this investigation. The inquiry into the military's actions during the tragic death of Cpl. Chae Su-geun highlights the need for transparent accountability within the armed forces. It is our duty to report on these matters with integrity, ensuring that the public remains informed and that justice prevails.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the investigation about?
The investigation pertains to the military's response to the 2023 death of Marine Cpl. Chae Su-geun, including allegations of interference by high-ranking officials.
Who is being summoned for questioning?
Former Marine Corps Commandant Kim Kye-hwan has been summoned for questioning as part of the investigation.
What are the allegations against the former President?
The allegations suggest that former President Yoon Suk Yeol interfered with the military's investigation into the Marine's death.
What actions have been taken against individuals involved?
Exit bans have been imposed on several individuals, including Kim Kye-hwan and Lim Seong-geun, to prevent them from leaving the country during the ongoing investigation.
When did the Marine's death occur?
Cpl. Chae Su-geun's death occurred in July 2023 during a search operation for victims of torrential rains.
