The Minute to Read (Weekdays) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea everyday, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened yesterday: Dec. 9.
Justice ministry issues unprecedented travel ban on President Yoon
On Dec. 9, the South Korean Justice Ministry imposed a historic travel ban on President Yoon Suk-yeol, marking the first time a sitting president has been barred from leaving the country. The ban is part of an investigation into allegations of insurrection and abuse of power related to Yoon’s role in a martial law declaration. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) requested the ban earlier in the day, and the Justice Ministry approved it. The CIO’s head, Oh Dong-woon, confirmed the request during a National Assembly session, stating that the measure had been initiated as part of ongoing investigations by the prosecution, police, and CIO. Under South Korea’s Immigration Act, the justice minister can impose a travel ban on individuals involved in criminal investigations, and the CIO argues Yoon meets the criteria for the restriction.
Political crisis pushes South Korean won to 2-year low
The South Korean won sharply depreciated against the U.S. dollar on Dec. 9, with the exchange rate reaching 1,426 won, the highest level in two years. This decline follows increasing political uncertainty, triggered by a failed impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol and his controversial martial law declaration. The won’s value continued to fall during the day, surpassing 1,430 won by mid-morning. Analysts are revising their forecasts, with some projecting the exchange rate could rise to as high as 1,450 won, citing concerns over prolonged political instability. Experts warn that the won-dollar rate will likely remain volatile amid ongoing political unrest.
Defense ministry suspends two more generals, as martial law fallout continues
South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense suspended two more generals from the Defense Counterintelligence Command on Dec. 8 in connection with the deployment of troops during President Yoon Suk-yeol’s emergency martial law declaration. The suspensions come after three other high-ranking officers were suspended two days earlier, creating a leadership vacuum in key defense units. The two newly suspended officers, Jung Sung-woo and Kim Dae-woo, face allegations related to the martial law incident, including attending a meeting before the declaration and deploying a team to arrest politicians. The ministry also suspended several personnel last week, including Army Chief of Staff Park An-su, who had been named to lead the martial law command. The martial law crisis has disrupted military operations, delayed training, and paralyzed the Joint Chiefs of Staff, raising concerns about national security. The Defense Ministry is operating with an acting minister for the first time in South Korea’s history.
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