South Korea indicts former interior minister for failed martial law attempt

ANKARA

South Korea’s former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min was indicted Tuesday on charges of abuse of power and his role in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's imposition of short-lived martial law last December, according to Yonhap news.

A special counsel team, led by Cho Eun-suk, accused Lee of playing an active role in Yoon's imposition of the failed martial law on Dec. 3.

Lee is also accused of facilitating the imposition of the decree by failing to prevent Yoon from declaring martial law.

He was arrested earlier this month on charges of leading an insurrection, abuse of power and perjury.

Lee is the second former Cabinet member to be indicted, following former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who faces insurrection charges for his alleged role in the failed martial law

Earlier Tuesday, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo also appeared for questioning regarding his alleged involvement in Yoon's failed attempt to impose martial law.

Meanwhile, the special counsel team also summoned former first lady Kim Keon Hee for questioning on Thursday.

Kim, who was arrested last week, faces multiple charges, including election meddling, bribery and abusing her power during Yoon's tenure.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid