The South Korean Cabinet on Tuesday approved a trio of special counsel probes, intensifying legal and political scrutiny on former president Yoon Suk Yeol. President Lee Jae-myung, who presided over the Cabinet session, endorsed the bills targeting Yoon, his wife Kim Keon Hee, and senior officials involved in a controversial marine death. These bills had already stirred fierce political debate, but Lee’s approval now sets the stage for the appointment of independent prosecutors. The investigations, likely to span up to 170 days, could deploy the largest prosecutorial team in South Korea’s history, with up to 120 members. Each probe targets a politically sensitive case that has dominated headlines in recent months.
The first bill focuses on Yoon’s alleged attempt to invoke martial law in December, a charge that lawmakers have now expanded into eleven possible violations, including insurrection and military mutiny. The legislature had previously vetoed the proposal twice, but its latest version passed with broader political consensus. This move follows Yoon’s removal from office in April and his ongoing trial on abuse of power. Lawmakers believe an independent special prosecutor will ensure transparency and impartiality. President Lee framed the bill’s passage as a public mandate to uphold the rule of law.
The second bill zeroes in on Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady, who faces multiple corruption allegations. These include claims of manipulating stock prices, accepting luxury gifts, and interfering in her husband’s election-related nominations. Though Kim has denied all wrongdoing, critics have accused the former administration of shielding her from scrutiny. Lee’s decision to endorse this bill signals a willingness to confront past improprieties. Supporters hope the special counsel probes will establish a precedent for ethical governance at the highest level.
Meanwhile, the third bill addresses a tragic 2023 case involving a Marine who drowned during a flood rescue operation. Allegations have since emerged that the presidential office and Ministry of National Defense interfered with the military’s investigation. Public anger over the incident has simmered for nearly a year, with the victim’s family demanding accountability. The newly approved probe will investigate whether key officials attempted to obstruct justice. Lee’s office has stressed that the investigation must reveal the full truth.
Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said the special counsel probes reflect Lee’s commitment to constitutional order and democratic accountability. Lee reportedly believes that the investigations resonate with voters’ demands for transparency and justice. In his first such move since taking office, Lee cast the decision as a response to public sentiment. While some critics view the probes as politically motivated, Lee’s administration insists they are legally justified. Ultimately, the special counsel probes could reshape the political landscape and deepen the legal peril facing the former president and his allies.
