In South Korea, the Korea Bar Association has begun disciplinary procedures against attorney Lee Ha-sang, which has sparked controversy and criticism from the legal team representing former Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-hyun. During a recent live broadcast on YouTube, lawyers Kim Ji-mi and Ko Young-il accused the Bar Association of failing to protect the rights of lawyers, stating that it was unacceptable for the association to remain silent while a lawyer's right to defend their client was infringed upon. Their comments come in the wake of a 15-day detention ordered against attorney Lee for courtroom misconduct, followed by a release just hours before their broadcast.

The criticism raised by the lawyers underscores a growing tension between legal professionals and the Bar Association, particularly regarding the association's role in protecting attorneys. Attorney Ko emphasized that the Bar Association is meant to advocate for lawyers' rights, not to shield judicial figures, arguing that the association should have actively protested against the actions of the presiding judge, Lee Jin-gwan, who issued the detention order. The vocal backlash highlights the importance of the Bar Association in maintaining the integrity and rights of legal practitioners, and raises questions about its current stance and actions in regards to members facing disciplinary actions.

Furthermore, Kim Yong-hyun's lawyers expressed concern over the handling of lawyer Kwon Woo-hyun, who also received a detention order last November but has not yet seen it executed. Kim addressed the media portrayal of Kwon as evading detention, asserting that Kwon is in good health, although communication is difficult due to restrictions on his electronic devices. This incident reflects broader issues relating to the judicial system and the treatment of lawyers within it, as well as the potential implications for attorney-client relationships and judicial conduct in South Korea.