Former Marine Corps Commander Appears for Investigation in Death Case

On June 4, 2025, Im Seong-geun, the former commander of the 1st Marine Division, arrived at the Daegu District Prosecutor's Office to face an investigation related to the death of Corporal Chae. He is being investigated for charges of professional negligence resulting in death. Im appeared as a suspect at 9:30 AM and addressed the media before the inquiry, stating, "I have been an active-duty soldier and refrained from speaking out due to potential political interpretations. Now that the presidential election is over, I believe the forthcoming results will reflect the truth without external influence. I hope the outcome will be based on law and evidence." Im Seong-geun retired from military service in February. He further expressed concern over the prolonged investigation, urging for a swift resolution, saying, "Given the public's legal understanding, the investigation has been delayed too long, and results should be announced promptly." Regarding the possibility of a special investigation into Corporal Chae's case, he mentioned, "If the findings from the Daegu District Prosecutor's Office or the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission do not align with public expectations, I may call for a special investigation. The truth must be clearly established." Following the death of Corporal Chae on July 19, 2023, the Gyeongbuk Police Agency conducted an investigation for about a year but concluded that there was insufficient causal evidence linking Im to the death. However, the family of the deceased filed an objection, leading the prosecution to continue the investigation with Im as a suspect. A prosecutor stated, "We cannot disclose further details as this is an ongoing investigation."