The former president of South Korea is accused of orchestrating a provocation using drones against North Korea.
The South Korean prosecution has filed additional charges against former President Yoon Suk-yeol in connection with drone launches into North Korea in 2024, an incident that could have provoked martial law.
The investigation claims that in October 2024, Yoon Suk-yeol, holding the presidency, ordered the launch of drones around Pyongyang. This allegation arose amidst accusations from North Korea, which stated that the drones were dispersing anti-Korean leaflets. South Korean prosecutors believe that the operation led to a leak of military information about Seoul’s capabilities, as one of the drones crashed near the North Korean capital.
Among those charged are former South Korean Minister of Defense Kim Young-Hyeon, ex-chief of military counterintelligence Yeh In-Heng, and the head of the Drone Operations Command Kim Young-Dae. The latter is accused of obstructing work and inciting the drafting of false documents.
After the drone launches, on December 3, 2024, Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law in the country, citing the threat of a state coup. However, a few hours later, the South Korean parliament unanimously voted to overturn this decision. Subsequently, Yoon was arrested in January 2025, later charged with attempting a state coup. In April, it was reported that he faces a life sentence.
The Yoon case highlights the tensions in relations between the two Koreas, as well as internal political contradictions in South Korea.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2024 | Drone launches into North Korea |
| December 3, 2024 | Declaration of martial law |
| December 31, 2024 | Arrest warrant issued |
| January 15, 2025 | Arrest of Yoon Suk-yeol |
| August 1, 2025 | Refusal to be interrogated |
