South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun attends a conference in Seoul, October 15, 2024. (Photo: YONHAP/VNA)

After being detained since last Sunday, Mr. Kim Yong Hyun was formally arrested on charges of "participating in important tasks during the rebellion" and "abuse of power to obstruct the exercise of power".

A spokesman for the Seoul Central District Court said the arrest was made due to concerns about the possibility of destroying evidence.

Early Wednesday morning, two senior police officials were also arrested amid the investigation into the political turmoil that intensified following the South Korean President's declaration of martial law.