Ex-security aide Kim Tae-hyo indicted over martial law role

Former National Security Advisor Kim Tae-hyo has been indicted while in custody on charges related to his alleged role in justifying martial law. The special prosecutor's team announced on November 29 that Kim was indicted on charges including engaging in important tasks for martial law and abuse of power.

Kim is accused of sending messages to key allies, including the United States, through foreign service officials immediately after the declaration of emergency martial law. These messages reportedly explained the background and legitimacy of the martial law, framing it as a measure to protect liberal democracy and a political demonstration within the constitutional framework. The messages also allegedly explained that then-President Yoon Suk-yeol sought to counter pro-North Korean and anti-American sentiments.

The special prosecutor's team suspects that President Yoon ordered Shin Won-sik, then National Security Advisor, and Kim Tae-hyo to explain the background and meaning of the martial law declaration to allied nations. Kim Tae-hyo was initially arrested on November 10. He subsequently filed a request for a judicial review of his detention, but the court dismissed it on November 16, stating there were no grounds for the request.

Separately, former President Yoon Suk-yeol and former National Security Advisor Shin Won-sik, who were also investigated, are scheduled to be indicted later after their cases are separated. The investigation and indictment of Kim Tae-hyo mark a significant development in the probe into the alleged martial law preparations.