Seoul - A formal complaint has been lodged against South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and two members of his Cabinet over the departure of the newly appointed Ambassador to Australia, Lee Jong-sup, amid ongoing investigations where he is a suspect. The complaint was filed by the civic group "National Action for Judicial Justice," targeting high-level government officials for what they perceive as an abuse of power.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the complaint centers on accusations that President Yoon, along with the foreign and justice ministers, orchestrated Lee's departure to Australia shortly after an exit ban was lifted. This move came amid inquiries into Lee's alleged interference in a probe related to a Marine's death last year. Despite these serious allegations, Lee was appointed as ambassador and left South Korea, raising concerns about the potential obstruction of justice.
The situation has drawn significant criticism, particularly from the opposition Democratic Party, which questions the rationale behind appointing an investigation suspect as an ambassador. In response, the presidential office has clarified that it was unaware of the investigation and the related exit ban when they nominated Lee for the ambassadorial position.
Defending its actions, the Justice Ministry explained its decision to lift Lee's exit ban, arguing that there were no longer justifiable reasons to enforce it. The ministry highlighted that although the ban was extended multiple times since September, Lee was never summoned for further questioning and had committed to cooperating with future investigations. His diplomatic posting and the receipt of the necessary consular agreement were also noted as factors in the decision to allow his departure.