Seoul, South Korea – June 13, 2025 – South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has appointed three independent prosecutors to investigate a series of controversial cases linked to the previous administration of Yoon Suk-yeol, according to the ruling Democratic Party of Korea. The move signals a potential escalation of political tensions and a renewed focus on accountability for alleged wrongdoings.
The three individuals appointed are Cho Eun-seok, former acting head of the Board of Audit and Inspection; Min Joong-ki, former Chief Judge of the Seoul Central District Court; and Lee Myung-hyun, former Chief of the High Prosecutors’ Office of the Ministry of National Defense. Each prosecutor will oversee a specific investigation under separate special prosecutor laws.
Key Investigations:
- The Insurrection Case Special Prosecution: This team will investigate allegations that former President Yoon Suk-yeol may have been involved in insurrection, military rebellion, or offenses related to foreign aggression. The probe will focus on 11 charges related to the December 12th Military Insurrection and subsequent martial law declaration.
- The Kim Keon-hee Special Prosecution: This investigation will focus on First Lady Kim Keon-hee, wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. It will examine 16 allegations, including her alleged involvement in stock manipulation of Deutsch Motors, acceptance of luxury handbags, involvement in the political broker Myung Tae-gyun’s election meddling, and conducting illegal public opinion polls.
- The Chae Sang-byeong Special Prosecution: Details surrounding this case were not provided in the source material.
Unification Ministry Notes Kim Jong-un’s Omission of South Korea
In related news, the South Korean Ministry of Unification has noted a significant difference in North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s recent public statements. During the unveiling ceremony of the new North Korean destroyer Kang Kon, Kim Jong-un did not mention South Korea. This contrasts with his remarks during the April 25th launch of the new multi-purpose attack destroyer Choe Hyun, where South Korea was mentioned. This omission is being closely analyzed for potential shifts in inter-Korean relations.
Analysis
President Lee Jae-myung’s decision to appoint special prosecutors underscores his commitment to transparency and accountability. However, the investigations are likely to be met with strong resistance from the opposition party and could further polarize the political landscape. The outcomes of these investigations will have significant implications for South Korea’s political future and its relationship with North Korea.
References
Yonhap News Agency. (2025, June 13). 2025년 6월 13일 한聯社要聞簡報 [2025 June 13th Yonhap News Agency Key News Brief].
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