Seoul: The presidential office announced the reprimand of five senior officials from the Presidential Security Service (PSS) due to their alleged involvement in a failed martial law attempt associated with former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
According to Yonhap News Agency, these senior officials faced criticism for hindering the execution of an arrest warrant for Yoon in January. This warrant was part of an investigation into insurrection charges against the former president. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung emphasized that the PSS's obstruction of a lawful court order led to social unrest and confusion. As a result, the officials have been placed on standby.
Temporary acting officers will fill the vacant posts until the PSS completes its organizational reshuffle. This development follows the recent inauguration of President Lee Jae-myung, who took office last week.
Former President Yoon, removed from office in April, is currently on trial for insurrection charges, with a sixth hearing set for later today. Kang highlighted that the PSS leadership's refusal to comply with legal orders and alleged retaliation against officers executing the arrest warrant prompted the disciplinary actions to reorganize the PSS under the Lee administration.
In response to the reprimand, the PSS apologized for not fulfilling its duties according to the law and committed to reform measures aimed at regaining public trust. The service stated that this personnel decision marks the first step in reforming the PSS and restoring public confidence under the new administration.