South Korean military officer criticizes martial law promotions

Lieutenant Colonel Yoo Sun-min, who commanded a special forces unit during the December 3 martial law incident, has issued a press conference criticizing recent military personnel decisions. Yoo, whose remarks were shared by lawmaker Lee Jin-sook, argued that the military command structure has collapsed following the martial law period.

Yoo specifically criticized the Ministry of National Defense for promoting officers who refused illegal orders during the martial law period, labeling such moves as a disgrace to military history. He contended that those who faithfully followed superior orders are being subjected to purges and disciplinary actions, while those who disobeyed are receiving special promotions.

The Ministry of National Defense has maintained that these promotions are intended to honor those who upheld constitutional values by refusing unlawful commands. Currently, approximately 30 active-duty military personnel, including 17 generals and 13 field-grade officers, are under investigation or facing disciplinary proceedings related to the martial law incident.