Seoul, March 17, 2025 – South Korean authorities have intensified their investigation into Vice Chief Kim Seong-hoon and Security Headquarters Chief Lee Gwang-woo of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) over allegations of power abuse and obstruction of justice.
The Special Investigation Team of the Korean National Police Agency raided their residences on March 3, securing personal and work mobile phones, including encrypted communication devices. Investigators suspect the two officials played a key role in blocking the execution of an arrest warrant against President Yoon Suk-yeol in January.
A police spokesperson stated that digital forensics on former Security Service Chief Park Jong-jun’s phone has revealed critical information linked to Kim. Park, who resigned on March 3, is also under investigation for his involvement but is considered a more cooperative figure.
Legal and Political Fallout
Authorities had previously requested arrest warrants for Kim and Lee, but prosecutors rejected them, demanding further evidence. Investigators plan to reapply, arguing that the risk of evidence tampering justifies immediate detention.
Additionally, former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min is being investigated for allegedly ordering power cuts to media outlets during the December 3 martial law crisis. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is also set to face further questioning regarding his role in the situation.
The Special Investigation Team has charged 53 individuals in connection with the martial law case, transferring several high-ranking officials to prosecutors. Among them are Defense Intelligence Command Chief Won Cheon-hee, former Intelligence Commander Moon Sang-ho, and Deputy Defense Minister Bang Jeong-hwan.
As the case unfolds, South Korea watches closely to see how authorities handle this unprecedented investigation into high-ranking security and government officials.
