Marine Corps Special Investigation Team to Question Colonel Over Allegations of Pressure in Death Case

The Marine Corps Special Investigation Team is set to question Colonel Park Jeong-hoon, who led the initial investigation into the death of Corporal Chae Soo-geun, on July 16 at 1:30 PM. Colonel Park is known for being the first to reveal the so-called 'VIP Anger Theory,' which claims that former President Yoon Suk-yeol expressed anger over the investigation results and ordered a halt to police referrals.

In a public announcement, the Special Investigation Team confirmed that Colonel Park would appear as a witness. They are expected to inquire about potential charges of negligent homicide against military leadership related to Corporal Chae's death, as well as allegations of external pressure from the presidential office during the investigation.

Colonel Park was responsible for the investigation into Corporal Chae's death in July 2023. He attempted to refer the case to the police, applying charges of negligent homicide against then-Marine Corps 1st Division Commander Lim Seong-geun. However, he faced orders from former Defense Minister Lee Jong-seop and former Marine Corps Commander Kim Gye-hwan to halt the referral, leading to charges of insubordination. The first trial ruled that the order to stop the referral was not a legitimate command, resulting in Colonel Park's acquittal. The Special Investigation Team later withdrew their appeal, confirming his acquittal on July 9, and he resumed his position as head of the Marine Corps investigation unit on July 11.

In a statement released through his legal team, Colonel Park expressed gratitude for the support he received from the public, stating, 'I have found my place again. Everything is thanks to the support and prayers of the citizens. I sincerely thank you.' He also expressed hope that the truth would soon be revealed and that those responsible would face legal consequences, wishing for no more unjust deaths like that of Corporal Chae.