The Military Special Investigation Unit has charged several military personnel, including former Defense Security Command chief Jeong Seong-woo, for directing an effort to seize control of the Central Election Commission and the National Assembly during the state of emergency.
The Military Special Investigation Unit (SIU) has made a significant move by charging multiple military officers, including Jeong Seong-woo, the former head of the Defense Security Command, in connection with orders to control the Central Election Commission (CEC) and the National Assembly during a state of emergency declared on December 3. Reports indicate that these directives were given by senior military leaders such as the commanders of the Counter-Intelligence, Civil Defense, and Special Forces. The charges involve serious allegations of insurrection and abuse of power, highlighting deep concerns about military overreach into civilian institutions.
According to investigative reports acquired by Hankyoreh on the 22nd, the SIU had charged Jeong along with several others including former brigade commanders and personnel from various divisions within the military. They allegedly were involved in organizing troops for unauthorized actions related to seizing the CEC's facilities and interventions in the National Assembly. The investigation initially concluded in December last year by special prosecutors, raising questions about the integrity of military operations and civilian oversight in South Korea.
As the situation unfolds, the involvement of high-ranking military officials raises alarm over the potential implications for South Korean democracy and governance. The rapid mobilization of military units directed at civilian agencies showcases a troubling precedent if abuse of military authority continues unchecked. The SIU's actions mark a critical juncture in addressing accountability within the military and maintaining strict boundaries between military actions and civilian governance.
