Martial Law – South Korea Identifies 180 Troops in 2024 Bid
Martial Law – South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense has identified nearly 180 military personnel linked to former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief attempt to impose martial law in late 2024. Officials confirmed on Thursday that disciplinary proceedings will move forward against those found to have played a role in the failed move.
Findings After Month-Long Military Review
The announcement follows a month-long review covering approximately 860 officers from 24 separate commands and military units. The inquiry was launched to determine how widely the martial law effort extended within the armed forces and to establish accountability.
According to ministry officials, more than 100 investigators drawn from the ministry itself, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and various service branches participated in the probe. Their task was to clarify who was involved, what authority they held, and whether they were directly responsible for decision-making related to the martial law declaration in December 2024.
The review concluded that around 180 personnel had varying degrees of involvement. Authorities did not disclose the names of those identified but confirmed that appropriate disciplinary steps are being prepared in accordance with military regulations.
Allegations of Planned Institutional Seizures
The investigation also uncovered indications that certain military intelligence units may have prepared actions beyond routine security measures. The ministry stated that circumstances were confirmed suggesting that the Defense Intelligence Command had devised plans in advance to assume control of the state-run election oversight body.
Additionally, evidence pointed to efforts by the Defense Counterintelligence Command and the ministry’s investigative headquarters to detain prominent political figures during the short-lived martial law period. Officials emphasized that the probe sought to verify these activities and determine how such plans were coordinated.
While details remain limited due to the sensitive nature of intelligence operations, the ministry indicated that further inquiries would continue where necessary.
Criminal Charges Against Senior Officers
Separate from internal disciplinary measures, legal proceedings are also underway. According to reports from Yonhap News Agency, three general-level officers and five colonels have been formally indicted on charges related to their alleged leadership roles in the failed martial law attempt.
Prosecutors are examining whether these senior officers exceeded their authority or violated constitutional provisions during the events of December 2024. The indictments mark one of the most serious accountability efforts within the armed forces in recent years.
The defence ministry clarified that administrative discipline and criminal investigations will proceed independently, depending on the severity of each individual’s actions.
Commitment to Restoring Military Integrity
Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back addressed the findings, acknowledging the damage caused to public confidence in the armed forces. He stated that the ministry would work decisively to address misconduct and restore the institution’s reputation.
“We will take firm steps to remove the stain on the military and rebuild trust so that the armed forces serve the people faithfully,” Ahn said in a statement released after the announcement.
Officials also noted that follow-up investigations would continue, particularly concerning the Defense Counterintelligence Command and the Defense Intelligence Command. Earlier reviews had faced limitations due to the classified responsibilities of those units. The ministry now plans to reassess those areas more thoroughly.
Broader Political Context
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s attempt to impose martial law in late 2024 was short-lived and ultimately unsuccessful. The episode triggered political controversy and led to widespread scrutiny of civil-military relations in South Korea.
The government has since emphasized transparency and adherence to constitutional order. Analysts say the latest announcement reflects a broader effort to reinforce civilian oversight of the military and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As disciplinary and legal proceedings move forward, attention is likely to remain focused on how the defence establishment ensures accountability while maintaining operational stability. The ministry has pledged to provide updates as additional findings emerge.