Defense Ministry Investigates Counterintelligence Unit Amid Allegations of Political Bias and Emergency Endorsement

The Hankyoreh reports on a deeply concerning development within the military: an investigation into the Defense Counterintelligence Command (DCIC) over allegations of endorsing an illegal state of emergency and collecting soldiers' political preferences. This situation strikes at the heart of military discipline and democratic principles. The Ministry of National Defense's decision to launch a probe by the Defense Investigation Agency, following President Lee Jae-myung's directive, is a necessary step to ensure accountability and restore public trust.

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The Defense Investigation Agency has been instructed to confirm the facts transparently and objectively.

Allegations, as reported by JTBC citing internal sources, suggest that some DCIC members not only defended an "unlawful state of emergency" but also engaged in political profiling of soldiers, even mocking them based on their perceived political leanings. While the DCIC has denied these claims, the very nature of such accusations demands a thorough and impartial investigation. The Defense Minister's initial statement that checks found the reports to be untrue, met with the President's request for a detailed report, underscores the complexity and sensitivity of the situation.

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If any deviant acts that have not yet escaped old habits are confirmed through the investigation, they will be dealt with strictly.

This investigation is particularly critical given the historical context. The DCIC, which played a significant role in the alleged "12.3 state of emergency," is currently slated for dissolution and restructuring. The accusations of political bias and endorsement of unconstitutional actions within such an organization raise serious questions about its past conduct and future role. The Hankyoreh believes that any unit within the armed forces must remain strictly apolitical and uphold the constitutional order without question.

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I have confirmed through various means and requested the Investigation Agency to conduct an investigation, but I was able to confirm that there were factual inaccuracies.

From our perspective, the core issue is the potential politicization of a critical national security institution. The military's primary duty is to defend the nation, not to engage in partisan activities or suppress dissent. If these allegations are proven true, it would represent a grave betrayal of the public trust and a threat to democratic governance. The investigation must be conducted with utmost transparency, and any personnel found to have engaged in such misconduct must face severe consequences. This is not just about internal military affairs; it's about safeguarding the integrity of our defense apparatus and ensuring it serves the nation, not political factions.

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Please report the results later.