Will South Korea's Ex-PM Han Face More Questioning in Martial Law Investigation?
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Synopsis
As the investigation into the failed martial law declaration unfolds, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is set to face further questioning. This latest development raises significant questions about his alleged complicity in the controversial actions of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. What will the outcome reveal about the political climate in South Korea?
Key Takeaways
- Han Duck-soo is facing further questioning over his role in a failed martial law declaration.
- The special counsel team is investigating former President Yoon Suk Yeol's actions.
- Han has been accused of complicity in the declaration attempt.
- The outcome of the questioning could lead to an arrest warrant.
- Han cooperated with investigators during previous sessions.
Seoul, Aug 20 (NationPress) A special counsel team in South Korea announced on Wednesday that it intends to interrogate former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo once more later this week regarding his purported involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's unsuccessful attempt to declare martial law. The team, led by Special Counsel Cho Eun-suk, is investigating the martial law bid and has requested Han to appear for another session at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, following an extensive 16-hour questioning earlier this week.
Han is accused of failing to prevent Yoon's declaration on December 3 while serving as the president's second-in-command, with investigators suspecting he played a significant role as an accomplice. Reports from Yonhap news agency indicate that the team will decide whether to seek an arrest warrant for Han after Friday's inquiry.
During the recent lengthy questioning, Han reportedly collaborated with investigators without invoking his right to remain silent. He was one of six Cabinet members whom Yoon consulted regarding the martial law declaration, and he participated in a Cabinet meeting that reviewed the decree as well as another that rescinded it on December 4.
The investigators believe that Han attempted to lend procedural legitimacy to Yoon's declaration by advocating for a Cabinet meeting with a quorum. Han has asserted that he attempted to dissuade Yoon by suggesting the president seek input from other Cabinet members.
Last month, Cho's team conducted a raid on Han's residence to seize relevant evidence. On Tuesday, Han Duck-soo appeared before the special counsel team for questioning regarding his alleged role in Yoon's failed attempt to impose martial law. As he arrived at Cho's office in southern Seoul, Han declined to respond to reporters' inquiries, with the focus of the session expected to be the allegations of his assistance in Yoon's December 3 martial law declaration.
Cho's team is anticipated to determine whether to pursue an arrest warrant against Han following his questioning, with special prosecutors suspecting Han's involvement was critical due to the procedural requirements for declaring martial law.
Point of View
The ongoing investigation into former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo underscores the importance of accountability in governance. The allegations against Han raise critical questions about the integrity of leadership and the necessity for transparency in political processes. As this story develops, it is crucial for the public to remain informed and engaged.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the questioning of Han Duck-soo?
The questioning aims to investigate Han's alleged involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed attempt to declare martial law.
When is Han Duck-soo's next questioning scheduled?
Han Duck-soo's next questioning is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Friday.
What are the accusations against Han Duck-soo?
Han is accused of not preventing Yoon's martial law declaration and is suspected of aiding the attempt.
What could happen after the questioning session?
After the questioning session, the special counsel team may decide whether to request an arrest warrant for Han.
Who is leading the investigation into the martial law declaration?
The investigation is being led by Special Counsel Cho Eun-suk.
