South Korea: Defence Ministry Confirms Military Command Under President Yoon
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Seoul, Dec 9 (NationPress) The command of South Korea's military forces is presently held by President Yoon Suk Yeol, acting as the commander in chief, according to a statement from the Defence Ministry on Monday. This comes as Yoon faces an investigation as a suspect in treason-related charges stemming from his recent martial law declaration.
On Sunday, prosecutors announced that they have officially designated Yoon as a suspect for insurrection after his unexpected martial law declaration on Tuesday night was swiftly rejected by the National Assembly just hours later.
During a routine briefing, Defence Ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyou responded to inquiries about whether a person implicated in an insurrection case could maintain such authority, stating: "Legally, (the command of military forces) currently lies with the commander in chief." This was reported by Yonhap news agency.
Han Dong-hoon, the leader of the ruling People Power Party, mentioned on Sunday that Yoon would refrain from engaging in state matters, including diplomacy, until his term concludes.
When questioned by reporters if this would also pertain to Yoon's military command, Han replied: "I believe that would be the case. It would encompass diplomatic affairs."
Jeon also addressed who holds the authority to declare martial law in wartime, clarifying that he understands the power remains unchanged.
Vice Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho, who is also acting as Defence Minister, indicated last week that the Defence Ministry and military forces would not comply with any orders to enforce martial law if such orders were given again.
In a televised address on Saturday, Yoon publicly apologized for raising public concerns due to his martial law order and pledged never to attempt such a declaration again.
Furthermore, Jeon mentioned that the ministry is investigating reports of personnel from the military's intelligence command entering the National Election Commission office in Gwacheon, situated just south of Seoul, on the evening of the martial law declaration.
Local news outlets previously reported that members of the Korea Defense Intelligence Command were seen filming the commission's computer servers at the office, triggering inquiries regarding their intentions.
