What Probes Has President Lee Initiated Against Ex-President Yoon?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has introduced bills for special counsel probes into former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law attempt and corruption allegations involving his wife. This decisive action marks Lee's commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae-myung initiates special counsel probes.
- Investigations focus on former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife.
- Allegations include insurrection and corruption.
- Up to 120 prosecutors will be involved.
- Probes aim to enhance transparency and accountability.
Seoul, June 10 (NationPress) South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Tuesday announced the introduction of legislative measures requiring special counsel investigations into a failed martial law attempt by former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, as well as corruption allegations involving his spouse, former first lady Kim Keon Hee.
Lee enacted three significant bills in his inaugural legislative action since assuming office last week, which also includes a call for a special counsel inquiry into the tragic drowning of a Marine during a flood rescue operation in 2023.
These bills received approval during a Cabinet meeting held earlier that day.
According to the presidential office, Lee expressed optimism that these special counsel investigations will thoroughly reveal the truths surrounding the associated allegations.
“Lee's implementation of these three special counsel measures, the first during his presidency, aims to fulfill public expectations regarding insurrection charges and the restoration of constitutional order, as highlighted in the presidential election,” stated presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung during a press briefing.
The investigations may impose additional legal challenges on Yoon, who was ousted in April and is currently facing trial for accusations of leading insurrection and abuse of power linked to the martial law issue.
One of the newly introduced bills specifically focusing on Yoon establishes a permanent special counsel to investigate 11 charges, including insurrection and military mutiny, regarding his unsuccessful martial law attempt in December.
This bill, which had been previously vetoed and discarded twice, has now been reintroduced with a broader scope, raising the number of charges from six to eleven.
Another bill aimed at the former first lady seeks to initiate a special investigation into accusations of stock price manipulation, her acceptance of a luxury handbag, and interference in the electoral nomination process, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The third legislative proposal calls for a special counsel investigation into alleged interference by the presidential office and the Ministry of National Defence concerning the military's inquiry into the Marine's death during a search-and-rescue operation in July 2023.
As many as 120 prosecutors may be assigned to these investigations, the largest team ever mobilized for such cases, with the inquiry potentially spanning over 170 days.
Point of View
These legislative actions by President Lee Jae-myung reflect a crucial step toward accountability and transparency in South Korea's political sphere. The investigations into former President Yoon and his wife's alleged misconduct signal a firm commitment to uphold democratic values and address public concerns about governance.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key allegations against former President Yoon?
Former President Yoon is facing allegations of leading insurrection and abuse of power related to a failed martial law attempt. He is also under investigation for 11 specific charges, including military mutiny.
What does the legislation proposed by President Lee entail?
President Lee's legislation includes three bills that mandate special counsel investigations into the alleged misconduct of former President Yoon and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, as well as the drowning death of a Marine during a flood rescue operation.
How many prosecutors will be involved in the investigations?
Up to 120 prosecutors may be dispatched for the investigations, making it the largest team ever assembled for such probes in South Korea.
