SEOUL: Prosecutors were questioning Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong on Thursday as part of a widening investigation into the botched martial law order by President Yoon Suk Yeol, officials said. The probe focuses on Cho's alleged involvement in the martial law declaration, including his participation in a Cabinet meeting where the measure was reportedly discussed.According to Yonhap News Agency, the special prosecution team called Cho in for questioning regarding his role in the martial law declaration, making him the first known Cabinet member to be questioned in the investigation. Cho was among the 11 Cabinet officials, including Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, present at the meeting held just minutes before President Yoon declared martial law last Tuesday night. The order was rescinded hours later after the National Assembly voted to reject it.Cho has publicly stated that he did not agree with the martial law order, but cited "limitations" in speaking out, as President Yoon had left the meeting immediately. The martial law decree faced criticism for including an order for striking doctors to return to work-a significant issue for the Yoon administration-or face punishment under the decree. Cho has claimed he was unaware of why this specific order was included in the decree.Prosecutors are expected to question Cho on the extent of his knowledge and involvement, including when he first learned of the decree and the content of discussions at the Cabinet meeting. There is speculation that other ministers will also be summoned for questioning.In a parliamentary hearing on Wednesday, Prime Minister Han acknowledged "procedural and substantive flaws" at the Cabinet meeting, which reportedly left no written record.
- September 13, 2026
