South Korean prosecutors detain ex-defence chief over martial law imposition

Kim Yong Hyun has been detained by prosecutors. Picture: Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press/AP

South Korean prosecutors have detained a former defence minister who allegedly recommended last week’s brief but stunning martial law imposition to President Yoon Suk Yeol, making him the first figure held over the case.

The development comes a day after Mr Yoon avoided an opposition-led bid to impeach him in parliament, with most ruling party politicians boycotting a floor vote to prevent the two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. The main opposition Democratic Party said it will prepare a new impeachment motion against Mr Yoon.