SEOUL: Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun appeared at the Constitutional Court on Thursday to provide testimony as a witness for President Yoon Suk Yeol during his impeachment trial. Kim downplayed the allegations implicating President Yoon in the brief imposition of martial law, which has become a pivotal issue in the trial. The hearing, which marks the fourth session, was attended by President Yoon himself. Kim is currently held at a detention center for his alleged involvement in the declaration of martial law on December 3rd.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) has transferred its investigation concerning President Yoon's failed martial law bid to the prosecution. The agency is seeking an indictment on charges of insurrection and abuse of power. The CIO has handed over more than 30,000 pages of investigation records compiled in 69 books. Notably, the CIO lacks the authority to indict a sitting president, necessitating the transfer of the case to the prosecution.
In related political news, Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, expressed concern on Thursday that South Korea might be marginalized if the stalled talks between the U.S. and North Korea resume under the new U.S. administration. He urged Seoul to make concerted efforts to engage with Pyongyang, especially in light of former U.S. President Donald Trump's reference to North Korea as a "nuclear power," which could signal a shift in Washington's policy.
In economic developments, Hyundai Motor Co. reported a 7.8 percent increase in net income for 2024, attributed to rising global demand for eco-friendly vehicles. The leading South Korean automaker announced a net profit of 13.22 trillion won (approximately US$9.2 billion) last year, up from 12.27 trillion won in 2023, according to its regulatory filing.
Lastly, the South Korean government has committed to providing US$1 million in humanitarian aid to Los Angeles County, California, following devastating wildfires. The wildfires, which began on January 7th, have destroyed over 12,000 structures and claimed at least 28 lives. The aid will be distributed through relief organizations to assist those affected by the disaster.