Former South Korean Defence Minister Defends Martial Law Decision Amid Insurrection Charges:

Former South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, currently detained, defended his actions in court on Monday, denying allegations of insurrection. He claimed that enforcing martial law was necessary due to the opposition’s "wicked behaviour," which he blamed for escalating the country's political crisis.

According to prosecutors, Kim conspired with President Yoon Suk Yeol to stage an insurrection by deploying the military to seize control of parliament. The indictment details how Kim and Yoon attempted to restrict access to key government locations and override opposition influence.

Kim, however, refuted these claims, arguing that martial law was a preventive measure aimed at highlighting concerns over election fraud and opposition dominance.

Political Tensions and Martial Law Declaration

The crisis escalated in December, when President Yoon shocked the nation by declaring martial law to combat "anti-state forces" and end political deadlock. He and Kim deployed troops to six locations, including the National Election Commission and parliament, attempting to secure control.

Despite these efforts, lawmakers swiftly moved against Yoon’s order. Within hours, 190 legislators defied security forces, voted down the martial law declaration, and forced the president to rescind the decision.

"Did I stage an illegal coup or insurrection? No, I didn’t," Kim told the court. "How can you call it a conspiracy when it was just a discussion?" he said, denying any unlawful plotting with Yoon.

Prosecutors Allege Conspiracy and Military Planning

During the trial, prosecutors presented further allegations against Kim, including his alleged collaboration with former army intelligence commander Noh Sang-won.

Noh, also facing insurrection charges, reportedly met Kim daily in the days leading up to the martial law declaration. He allegedly ordered military officers to prepare equipment, including cable ties, for the potential arrest of election officials.

A police official previously stated that Noh discussed military deployment plans with army officers at a Lotteria fast-food restaurant, two days before Yoon's martial law announcement. However, Kim’s defense team maintains that Noh had no connection to the president’s decision and was not involved in martial law planning.

Legal Arguments and Ongoing Proceedings

Prosecutor Yoo Byung-kuk told the court that martial law was unjustified since South Korea was not facing a national emergency or wartime conditions.

"They mobilized the military and police, blockading parliament and detaining officials without a warrant," Yoo stated, arguing that these actions met the legal definition of insurrection.

However, Kim’s lawyer, Lee Ha-sang, dismissed these claims, insisting the prosecution failed to prove insurrection.

"Insurrection means long-term instability and harm to national peace. Restricting access and military commands do not amount to that," he argued.

President Yoon’s Legal Troubles

President Yoon Suk Yeol is also facing criminal trial for insurrection but was released from detention earlier this month.

Meanwhile, he awaits a Constitutional Court ruling that will determine whether he will be removed from office following impeachment proceedings initiated by the opposition-led parliament. The decision is expected in the coming days.