Prosecutors Conclude Investigation into Military and Police Leadership

On January 10, prosecutors concluded their investigation into the military and police leadership involved in the '12·3 Martial Law' incident by formally indicting former Intelligence Commander Noh Sang-won. This action means that all nine military and police officials arrested in connection with the incident will face trial. The prosecution is continuing its investigation into mid-level military and police officers to determine the extent of their legal responsibilities, while also preparing to question President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is considered the ultimate authority responsible for the martial law declaration.

The prosecution has charged nine individuals with insurrection-related offenses and abuse of power. The investigation began on December 6, shortly after the martial law was declared, with a special investigation team formed in collaboration with military prosecutors, deploying 25 prosecutors for a comprehensive inquiry. The first arrest was of former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun on December 8, followed by a series of arrest warrants issued for military leaders. Police also arrested Chief of Police Jo Ji-ho and former Seoul Police Chief Kim Bong-sik, who were subsequently handed over to the prosecution.

The prosecution concluded that the martial law was an insurrection aimed at undermining the constitution, asserting that President Yoon declared the martial law without meeting the necessary conditions and that the military and police mobilized under his orders obstructed the functions of the National Assembly and the National Election Commission. In addition to Kim Yong-hyun, the nine individuals indicted are also considered accomplices to President Yoon, who faces charges of being the mastermind behind the insurrection.

Noh Sang-won, a controversial figure in the martial law incident, is accused of planning the martial law alongside Kim Yong-hyun. Police investigations revealed that Noh had visited Kim's residence over 20 times from September to December last year, particularly making four consecutive visits from November 30 until the day of the martial law declaration. Noh allegedly advised Kim on personnel decisions, including the retention of former Intelligence Commander Moon Sang-ho.

Despite being a civilian, Noh is also implicated in efforts to establish a 'Second Investigation Team' to probe election fraud allegations. He reportedly directed personnel selection for this team and planned to detain over 30 election commission staff members after the martial law was declared, preparing items such as aluminum baseball bats and zip ties for this purpose.

The prosecution is also preparing to question President Yoon, having already drafted a list of questions in anticipation of his summons. The investigation into the president's office and mid-level military officials continues, with police recently questioning National Security Office Director Shin Won-sik and Chief Civil Affairs Officer Kim Joo-hyun. The investigation into Army Brigadier General Koo Sam-hwa, who was set to lead the Second Investigation Team, is ongoing as well.