A leaked 101-page indictment has brought South Korean President Yoon into the spotlight, with allegations of ordering actions against non-compliant media outlets. According to the document, prosecutors claim Yoon instructed his home minister to target specific newspapers and broadcasters following their non-compliance with government directives. Among those allegedly targeted are prominent newspapers Hankyoreh and Kyunghyang, along with broadcasters MBC and JTBC.
The indictment suggests that Yoon directed his home minister to "blockade" these media entities by cutting off essential utilities such as electricity and water. These measures were reportedly a response to the outlets' failure to align with government expectations. The allegations have intensified scrutiny over Yoon's actions, particularly as he faces legal challenges.
In addition to the media crackdown, Yoon is accused of issuing a directive to martial law commanders shortly after declaring martial law on December 3. The directive, reportedly given at midnight, instructs commanders to prevent lawmakers from voting to lift the decree. This order came approximately one and a half hours after Yoon's declaration of martial law, during a time when the legislature was attempting to counteract the decree.
Yoon has denied accusations of ordering martial law forces to raid the legislature. His denial was made during a Constitutional Court hearing aimed at determining whether his impeachment by the National Assembly should be upheld. The case has garnered significant attention as it examines the extent of Yoon's actions during this critical period.
"Nothing [serious] has happened and what [prosecutors] are doing is like chasing the reflection of the moon on the lake." – Yoon
This statement reflects Yoon's dismissal of the allegations, suggesting that the prosecutors' pursuit lacks substantial grounding. However, the leaked indictment and subsequent proceedings in court have kept public interest high, as observers await further developments.
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