The special prosecutor’s office investigating the December 3 martial law declaration has recommended a five-year suspension from public office for Lee Eun-woo, former president of the Korea National Assembly Broadcasting Corporation (KTV). Authorities suspect he directly ordered executives to produce stockpiles of subtitles downplaying criticism of the emergency measure.
Details of the Raid and Recommendation
On May 15, investigators from the Seoul Central District Court’s 23rd Criminal Division (Presiding Judge Oh Se-young) conducted a search at Lee’s residence. The probe focused on his alleged role in directing staff to create non-critical footage after discovering officials who had accurately reported the martial law’s causes and impacts.
The recommendation stems from evidence uncovered during the raid, highlighting Lee’s direct involvement. It was formally submitted to the relevant prosecutorial division.
Prior Directives and Rationale
Lee previously instructed KTV executives to prepare similar footage stockpiles related to the December 3 declaration, asserting that the economy faced no damage or threat.
Prosecutors noted, “As the chief of broadcasting personnel and a public official, the president was obligated to faithfully implement orders and provide accurate situational updates alongside national operations and citizens’ core rights during the emergency. He failed to do so.”
They added, “Even markets could not foresee the declaration. Public shock and market losses reflect anxiety over the martial law itself, not presidential judgment—this was the root cause.”
Defense and Context
Lee emphasized KTV’s unique role, stating it requires special consideration. In a later statement, he described KTV as “not a systematically biased outlet distorting facts, but the smallest agency under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism dedicated to airing the ruling party’s direct political voice.”
He further remarked, “Reporting government developments without prejudice upholds public officials’ core duty.”
Next Steps
The division has scheduled the sentencing hearing for June 26.
