3 South Korean ‘martial law’ commanders suspended

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – At least three martial law commanders were suspended from duties in South Korea on Friday, in what seems to be a damage-control step by President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The far east nation’s Defense Ministry said capital Defense Command Commander Lee Jin-woo, Special Warfare Command Commander Kwak Jong-geun, and Armed Forces Counterintelligence Command Commander Yeo In-hyeong were suspended from duties.

All of them are ranked lieutenant generals, according to Yonhap News.

The trio are accused of deploying troops to the parliament on Tuesday when Yoon announced army rule in the country.

But his decision was reversed after opposition lawmakers rushed to parliament and 190 of them voted down Yoon’s move.

Kim Yong-hyun, who was removed as defense minister on Thursday, took responsibility of the aborted move, dubbed as “self-coup” by the main opposition Democratic Party.

Park An-su, who was named the martial law commander, has also tendered resignation which remains “under review” at the Defense Ministry.

Yoon will face an impeachment vote at the parliament on Saturday, and police have also opened investigation against him for alleged treason.