Orion Experiences First Partial Strike Amid Labor Dispute Orion's sales labor union has initiated its first partial strike in the company's history amid ongoing disputes over wage system reforms. The food industry is closely watching the situation as companies face prolonged domestic stagnation and rising labor costs. According to industry sources, the Orion branch of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions conducted a partial strike from June 4 to June 5. Approximately 70 sales employees responsible for supplying and selling products to domestic supermarkets participated in the strike, which involved refusing to work in the afternoon. The union secured the right to strike with a 94.5% approval rate in a prior vote. Negotiations between Orion and the union began in January, but discussions broke down in April, and mediation attempts by the Central Labor Relations Commission in April and May also failed to reach an agreement. The company proposed a wage increase of 3.5%, up from the previous 2%, but the union rejected this offer, arguing it does not align with the company's growth and is demanding a 7.5% increase. The union is also calling for the implementation of a previously agreed adjustment of the basic salary and allowances ratio (from 60:40 to 70:30) and improvements to the compensation system for on-site duties. This strike is considered unusual given that Orion has historically provided some of the best working conditions in the confectionery industry. According to the company's business report from last year, the average annual salary for employees was 81 million won, significantly higher than that of competitors. However, the conflict has arisen due to a perceived gap in compensation felt by employees. Compared to 2024's average salary of 88 million won, last year's average salary has actually decreased. Additionally, while dividends surged from 49.4 billion won to 138.4 billion won over the past three years, the union claims that employee compensation has not kept pace. The disparity in perceptions between labor and management has also been exacerbated by strong overseas business performance and stagnation in domestic operations. Last year, Orion recorded its highest-ever consolidated revenue of 3.33 trillion won and an operating profit of 558.2 billion won, with 66.7% (2.22 trillion won) coming from overseas subsidiaries in countries like China and Vietnam. In the first quarter of this year, revenue from overseas subsidiaries increased by 24.4% compared to the previous year, while revenue from the Korean subsidiary grew only 0.4%. There remains a significant gap between labor and management regarding how much of the overseas success should be reflected in employee compensation. The industry is concerned that this situation could have broader implications for wage negotiations across the food sector. Major companies like Nongshim are currently engaged in wage negotiations, and the union leading the Orion strike has members in various companies, including Haitai Confectionery, Paris Baguette, Dunkin', Samlip, Pulmuone, Dongseo Foods, and Jeong Sik Food. Orion plans to hold additional negotiations on June 10. An Orion representative stated, "We operate one of the industry's best compensation systems, and the average salary per employee has nearly doubled over the past decade. We provide annual wage increases along with performance bonuses and special bonuses during the Chuseok holiday." The representative added, "We aim to create a better company through amicable negotiations with the union." 2026-06-08 16:12:00

Labor Legislation in the Spotlight: Retirement Age Extension and Worker Rights As the local elections conclude, key labor legislation issues that have been stalled are expected to be revisited. With significant differences between labor and management on issues such as retirement age extension and protections for platform workers, discussions on labor legislation in the second half of the year are set to intensify.◆Renewed Discussion on Retirement Age Extension...Disagreements on Continued Employment ModelAccording to government and political sources on June 8, the National Assembly is expected to discuss major labor policy issues in the second half of the year, including extending the retirement age to 65, the Basic Law for Workers aimed at protecting platform workers, the Worker Presumption System, and reforms to the retirement pension system.The most pressing issue is the retirement age extension. The Democratic Party's Special Committee on Retirement Age Extension is working on final recommendations ahead of its activities concluding at the end of this month. Once the National Assembly's new session is organized, discussions on related bills are expected to accelerate.The retirement age extension has been a persistent topic aimed at bridging the gap between the legal retirement age and the age at which individuals can start receiving national pension benefits. Currently, the legal retirement age is 60, while the pension eligibility age is set to gradually rise to 65 by 2033, potentially creating a gap of up to five years without income.Labor groups strongly advocate for the need for legislation to extend the retirement age. A recent public opinion survey conducted by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions found that 88.3% of respondents support extending the legal retirement age to 65. Labor unions plan to increase pressure on the government and the National Assembly to advance related legislation in the upcoming session.Conversely, the business sector expresses concerns about rising labor costs and potential impacts on youth employment, calling for a cautious approach.The method of extending the retirement age itself is also a contentious issue. The business sector favors a continued employment model that involves terminating existing contracts and creating new ones, as this allows for easier wage adjustments. In contrast, labor groups oppose any retirement age extension that is predicated on wage reductions.The Ministry of Employment and Labor emphasizes the need for discussions through social dialogue. Minister Kim Young-hoon stated in a recent press briefing, "The discussion on retirement age extension is a well-matured agenda," adding that efforts will be made to persuade stakeholders to aim for passage during the regular session.◆Reviving the Basic Law for Workers and Worker Presumption System...Platform Worker Protections at StakeLegislation aimed at protecting platform workers is also expected to be revisited. The Ministry of Employment and Labor's initiatives for the Worker Presumption System and the Basic Law for Workers were initially targeted for passage before Labor Day but faced delays due to opposition from small business groups and the business sector.The Worker Presumption System aims to classify platform workers who meet certain criteria as employees, thereby expanding the application of labor laws. This initiative is driven by the rapid increase in special employment and platform workers. The current Labor Standards Act defines workers as those who provide labor for wages, leaving many, such as delivery drivers and private tutors, without legal protections. The number of workers not covered by labor laws has risen from 6.69 million in 2019 to an estimated 8.69 million in 2024.The accompanying Basic Law for Workers seeks to establish a framework for guaranteeing basic rights for various labor providers, including platform workers and freelancers.However, the business sector opposes this legislation, citing increased burdens on companies, while labor groups argue that the protections offered are too limited and call for enhancements. Both sides express negative views toward the current government proposal, suggesting that modifications may be necessary during the legislative process.Additionally, discussions on reforms to the retirement pension system, changes to the employment insurance system, and expanding unemployment benefits for voluntarily leaving workers are also expected to be key labor policy issues in the second half of the year.Given that many of the labor legislative issues in the upcoming session involve sharply conflicting interests between labor and management, there are calls for social consensus to precede these discussions. National research institutions, including the Korea Labor Institute, have recommended that social dialogue and consultations among stakeholders are crucial for resolving labor market issues.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 16:03:00

Kim Byeong-hwan Takes Position at Accounting Policy Institute Last September, Kim Byeong-hwan, who stepped down as Chairman of the Financial Services Commission, has found a new role at an accounting research institute. As of April, Kim has been serving as a visiting research fellow at the Accounting Policy Institute, a nonprofit organization under the Financial Services Commission. This marks his first full-time position since retiring about seven months ago. The institute focuses on researching policies, laws, and environments related to accounting, aiming to provide policy alternatives that enhance economic diagnostics and accounting transparency.Given the experience of its visiting researchers and directors, the institute is also a hub for high-level information in the financial sector. Choi Un-yeol, the institute's chairman, previously served as a member of the Bank of Korea's Monetary Policy Committee, while Yoon Chang-ho, a director, has held positions as the former head of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and CEO of Korea Securities Finance Corporation.A graduate of Seoul National University with a degree in economics, Kim is recognized as a macroeconomic expert, having worked on capital markets and economic policy at the Ministry of Economy and Finance. While there are several research institutes in South Korea, he is believed to have chosen the accounting-focused institute to leverage his strengths.Former heads of financial authorities are pursuing various paths after retirement. Historically, many have transitioned to research institutes or financial-related organizations. For instance, former Chairman Kim Seok-dong became the head of a humanities and social research institute under a law firm, while former Chairpersons Eun Sung-soo and Kim Joo-hyun took on roles as visiting research fellows at the Korea Financial Research Institute shortly after their departures. Former Chairman Ko Seung-beom also joined the Capital Market Research Institute as a visiting research fellow just three months after his retirement in October 2022, later being appointed as the head of the Youth Financial Education Council in October 2024.A source in the financial sector noted, "Research institutions help fill the gap immediately after retirement and maintain networks within the financial sector."Some former officials have moved to law firms. Shin Je-yoon became an advisor at Bae, Kim & Lee LLC, while Choi Jong-ku took on a special advisory role at Hwa Woo LLC. Eun Sung-soo initially joined the Korea Financial Research Institute before becoming an advisor at Kim & Chang, and Lim Jong-ryong also served as an advisor at Yulchon LLC.Another financial sector source remarked, "As the career paths for senior officials from financial authorities narrow after retirement, more are opting for research institutes, universities, or associations. The competition among law firms to recruit former officials is intensifying amid a surge in various regulations."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 16:03:00

President Yoon Calls for Continued Focus on North Korean Denuclearization President Lee Jae-myung emphasized on June 8 that the goal of denuclearization must not be abandoned, stating that negotiations should aim to halt North Korea's production of nuclear materials and the development of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology in the short term. During a press conference at the Blue House to mark his first year in office, President Lee asserted that while long-term denuclearization is essential, it is crucial to set realistic short-, medium-, and long-term goals for dialogue. He noted, "We are imposing sanctions to the fullest extent possible, but it is uncertain whether the door to China is firmly closed to North Korea's evasion of sanctions, while the door to Russia remains wide open. Therefore, despite our pressure, they find ways to escape. This is a regrettable reality." President Lee pointed out that North Korea is currently capable of producing 10 to 20 nuclear weapons annually and is continuously improving its ICBM technology, nearing its final stages of development. He warned that maintaining the status quo would only exacerbate the situation, stating, "Halting this situation would benefit both the Korean Peninsula and the international community." Regarding security on the Korean Peninsula, he remarked, "We cannot pursue nuclear armament. If we do, will Japan and Taiwan remain passive? The entire region would become nuclear-armed, leading to severe international sanctions that South Korea, with its high dependence on foreign trade, cannot withstand. Calls for nuclear armament are truly irresponsible." On international security, he analyzed that if North Korea's nuclear weapons or missile technology exceed what is necessary for regime preservation, they may be exported, posing a significant risk. "Preventing this alone would benefit the international community," he added. President Lee reiterated that the immediate goals for negotiations should include halting the production of additional nuclear materials, preventing the export of nuclear materials, and stopping ICBM technology development. He stated, "If we are questioned about why we abandoned denuclearization, it would only lead to a worse situation by ignoring reality." He mentioned that he has communicated this to U.S. President Donald Trump on two occasions and continues to discuss it with other leaders. In response to a question about the Korea-Japan Mutual Military Support Agreement (ACSA), President Lee described the military cooperation between South Korea, the U.S., and Japan as unique. He expressed that security issues in Northeast Asia should be approached through a complex multilateral security framework, but acknowledged the current confrontational atmosphere necessitates caution. ACSA refers to an agreement between nations to share military supplies such as ammunition, fuel, and food in times of crisis. Regarding the recent incident involving the South Korean vessel Namuho being struck by an Iranian missile in the Strait of Hormuz, President Lee stated, "It is clear that this was not an intentional act. If it were, they would have claimed responsibility. While there are various factors, we assess it as an Iranian missile, and we have lodged a strong protest and demanded measures to prevent recurrence." 2026-06-08 16:00:00

Special Prosecutor's Investigation Targets Yoon Suk Yeol Amid Allegations The second comprehensive special prosecutor team, led by Special Prosecutor Kwon Chang-young, is narrowing its investigation into former President Yoon Suk Yeol as it enters its final stages. The investigation focuses on three main areas: allegations of rebellion related to martial law, misappropriation of budget for the relocation of the presidential residence, and efforts to suppress the investigation into the stock manipulation case involving Kim Kun-hee and Deutsche Motors. The special prosecutor announced on June 8 that it plans to summon former President Yoon on June 13 at 10 a.m. as a suspect in the rebellion case under military law. This follows a week after the investigation into allegations of abuse of power related to justifying martial law was conducted on June 6. The special prosecutor views Yoon's actions of deploying armed soldiers to the National Assembly and the National Election Commission after declaring martial law as grounds for rebellion. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun was also summoned on June 4 on similar charges but reportedly refused to testify. The special prosecutor has confirmed through witness interviews related to the Joint Investigation Headquarters of the Defense Security Command that there were substantial preparations for martial law starting around November 2023. Both Yoon's and Kim's legal teams argue that since they are already facing trial for rebellion, the investigation into rebellion charges could constitute double jeopardy. Consequently, the special prosecutor is expected to focus on the legal overlap between the rebellion investigation and the existing rebellion case, the purpose and command structure of military troop deployment, and any prior preparations. The investigation into abuse of power is nearing completion. Special Prosecutor Kwon Young-bin stated during a regular briefing at the government complex in Gwacheon that Yoon did not exercise his right to refuse to testify during the June 6 investigation and generally denied the allegations. Kwon explained that Yoon expressed the belief that martial law is still legal. He reportedly stated that since the martial law was lawful, he instructed that it be communicated to foreign entities, asserting that he does not recognize any wrongdoing or abuse of power. During the June 6 investigation, the special prosecutor condensed much of the prepared content for questioning. Kwon noted, "While there is some regret about the preparation, I believe the investigation concluded satisfactorily on Saturday, and I do not think additional investigations will be necessary." The allegations regarding the misappropriation of the presidential residence relocation budget are also a key focus of the investigation. Following the arrests of former Chief of Staff Kim Dae-ki and former Secretary Yoon Jae-soon, the special prosecutor has also questioned former Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min. The investigation is centered on whether the budget for the maintenance of aging facilities was diverted for the presidential residence construction and the involvement of the presidential office, the Ministry of Interior and Safety, and the Ministry of Planning and Budget in this process. On the same day, the special prosecutor conducted searches at the residences of relevant individuals, including the head of the budget office at the Ministry of Planning and Budget and the former economic and financial secretary of the presidential office. The special prosecutor is focusing on whether the Ministry of Planning and Budget condoned or colluded in the budget misappropriation process. With the detention periods for Kim and Yoon approaching, it is expected that charges against related individuals will be filed this week, intensifying the investigation into Yoon's involvement. The allegations regarding the suppression of the investigation into the stock manipulation case involving Kim Kun-hee and Deutsche Motors are also expanding to include higher-level officials. The special prosecutor has summoned officials from the Supreme Prosecutors' Office for questioning and has charged former Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung with abuse of power. Future investigations may include former Minister of Justice Park Sung-jae to confirm Yoon's involvement. There are expectations within the special prosecutor's office that additional investigations into former President Yoon may continue during the remaining investigation period. The special prosecutor has extended the initial investigation deadline until June 24, with the possibility of two further extensions. Therefore, the special prosecutor is likely to accelerate efforts to clarify the involvement of higher-ups in the rebellion allegations, the misappropriation of the presidential residence budget, and the suppression of the Deutsche Motors investigation. Legal experts suggest that the special prosecutor's investigation has moved beyond the operational staff and advisors to confirm Yoon's directives and approvals. With the abuse of power investigation nearing its conclusion, the rebellion investigation is intensifying, and the inquiries into the presidential residence relocation and the Deutsche Motors investigation suppression are converging, bringing the special prosecutor's investigation into sharp focus on Yoon Suk Yeol.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:57:00

Only One of 132 Planned 'Moa Towns' in Seoul Has Broken Ground Despite growing expectations for redevelopment projects like Moa Town under the leadership of Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, progress toward actual groundbreaking remains slow. Rising construction costs, financial burdens, and community conflicts have resulted in only one of the 132 planned Moa Town sites beginning construction. According to the redevelopment industry on June 8, while Mayor Oh's fifth term has reduced political uncertainty surrounding Seoul's redevelopment projects, the Moa Town initiative has not gained momentum at the construction phase. Industry experts believe that resolving bottlenecks before groundbreaking is more critical than expanding designated areas. Seoul City has been promoting the Moa Town project since 2022 to revitalize aging low-rise residential areas. The Moa Town model consolidates multiple small-scale housing projects in densely populated multi-family neighborhoods into larger developments. As of March, 73 of the 132 targeted sites have received approval for management plans, while 51 are in the planning stage and eight are undergoing site selection procedures, according to Seoul City. Even after management plan approval, subsequent steps such as obtaining project implementation and management disposition approvals, as well as relocation and demolition processes, remain. Currently, construction has only commenced in one area, specifically in the Bondon district of Gangbuk-gu. A Seoul City official stated, "Since the project began selecting sites in 2022, many areas are still in the planning and administrative process." The most significant variable affecting progress is project viability. With rising construction costs leading to disputes in reconstruction and redevelopment sites, the smaller scale of Moa Town projects makes it challenging to absorb increased costs. Additionally, the targeted sites are concentrated in mid-priced housing areas on the outskirts of Seoul. Many are located in neighborhoods like Jungnang-gu (18 sites) and Gangseo, Gangbuk, Gwangjin, and Seongbuk districts (nine sites each), which are less affluent than Gangnam. In areas where sale prices and general sale profits are limited, rising construction costs and member contribution burdens could slow project progress. Financing conditions are also challenging. The contraction of the real estate project financing (PF) market and ongoing interest rate pressures have made securing funds for project and relocation costs more difficult. In regions with lower project viability, rising financial costs are likely to translate into greater burdens for members. Administrative procedures present another variable. Redevelopment projects must navigate various approvals from local governments after Seoul City's review, including establishment of associations, project implementation, and management disposition. Differences in administrative capabilities and community feedback processes among districts can lead to varying speeds of progress. To address delays and lack of momentum in Moa Town projects, Seoul City is proposing a public participation model that expands the involvement of the Seoul Housing Corporation (SH). With SH's participation, it becomes possible to increase the area size and secure loans for up to 70% of total construction costs through collaboration with private banks. A Seoul City official remarked, "Through public participation in Moa Town, we are supporting projects in areas with low viability. We will also work to accelerate project progress through various institutional improvements, such as easing regulations on rental housing." A real estate expert, who requested anonymity, stated, "While Moa Town is a necessary policy for revitalizing aging residential areas, we need to consider both the viability of the projects and the market conditions to ensure actual implementation rather than just expanding designated areas."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:54:00

Democratic Party Responds to Kim Young-rok's Criticism of Gwangju Election Process The Democratic Party responded on June 8 to criticism from Jeonnam Governor Kim Young-rok regarding the Gwangju mayoral primary, stating that his claims were "not accurate." During a press conference at the National Assembly, Secretary-General Cho Seung-rae said, "We have already addressed the issue of some ARS omissions during the primary process immediately, and there was a process of agreement and confirmation from the candidates' representatives." Cho emphasized, "While it is politically free to make choices based on one's own judgment and beliefs at the party convention, attacking and criticizing the primary process is inappropriate." Meanwhile, Governor Kim appeared on MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus' and stated, "Listening to general public opinion, (the party members in Honam) say, 'Jeong Cheong-rae is finished,'" adding that he would oppose Jeong's re-election once his term as governor ends. He expressed dissatisfaction, claiming, "The primary process was opaque and unfair." Additionally, on June 3, Kim posted on Facebook, stating, "I will dedicate everything to removing Jeong Cheong-rae," and criticized the party leader, saying, "Honam residents have been thoroughly ignored by an arrogant party leader. Jeong must take responsibility for his actions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:54:00

Peru's Presidential Election: A Crucial Test for Latin America's Right-Wing Shift Peru's presidential election has emerged as a critical test for the right-wing expansion in Latin America. In the runoff election, exit polls indicated that right-wing candidate Keiko Fujimori narrowly led left-wing candidate Roberto Sanchez. If Peru shifts to the right, it could bolster the trend of right-wing governance seen in Argentina, Chile, and Ecuador. On June 7, Reuters reported that the polling agency Ipsos found Fujimori, representing the Popular Force party, at 50.7% and Sanchez, from the Together for Peru party, at 49.3%. Another agency, Datum, reported Fujimori at 50.53% and Sanchez at 49.47%. AFP noted that the margin between the two candidates falls within the margin of error, effectively making it a tie. Official results may take time to finalize. The main issue at stake is public safety. Peru has seen a surge in homicides and robberies, leading to protests and political instability. The Associated Press reported that a government survey last year found 84% of urban residents expressed concern about becoming victims of crime in the future. This climate of insecurity has favored Fujimori, who has emphasized tough measures against organized crime. Fujimori is the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, who gained support through a hardline approach to crime but left a legacy of authoritarian rule and human rights abuses. In this campaign, Fujimori has focused on combating organized crime, pledging to militarize borders, deploy police and military to high-risk areas, and implement mandatory labor for inmates. Sanchez has centered his campaign on reducing inequality and expanding the role of government. He is classified as a leftist politician aligned with former President Pedro Castillo. Sanchez has promised to amend the current constitution, which supports a market-oriented system, and reform mining rights. He has also proposed increasing investments in rural areas and expanding government economic intervention. However, Sanchez's reform proposals have raised concerns about market instability. Fears that constitutional amendments and increased government intervention could lead to stricter regulations have affected investor confidence. Reuters reported that as Sanchez gained momentum in polls, the Peruvian stock market showed signs of weakness. This election is also tied to shifts in the political landscape of Latin America. Reuters noted that right-wing presidents have recently been elected in Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, and Ecuador, while Bolivia ended nearly 20 years of socialist rule last year. If Fujimori wins, Peru, a major copper-producing nation, would join the ranks of countries with right-wing governments. Relations with the United States are another variable. Fujimori has signaled a desire to align with right-wing leaders in the U.S., Argentina, Chile, and Ecuador. In contrast, Sanchez advocates for an expanded government role, particularly in rural areas and the mining sector. Newsweek has identified Peru and Colombia as the next tests for the rightward shift in the political landscape of the Americas. A victory for the right-wing candidate does not guarantee political stability. Peru has experienced significant political turmoil in the past decade, with nine presidents, including interim leaders. Whichever candidate wins will have to navigate a divided Congress and low political trust. Newsweek characterized this vote as a referendum on Peru's approach to crime while also assessing whether the trend of right-wing governance in Latin America will continue. If Sanchez manages to turn the tide, the left could use Peru as a base to push for wealth redistribution and increased control over resource industries. If the race remains close until the final results, ongoing political instability is likely after the election.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:51:00

Procurement Agency Awards Employees for Supply Chain Innovations The Procurement Agency has awarded 31 million won to employees who actively responded to supply chain crises and contributed to innovations in public procurement. On June 8, the agency presented special performance awards to four employees who achieved significant policy outcomes, including securing emergency supplies of urea for vehicles. The awardees were selected through a process that included candidate nominations, internal and external performance verification, and evaluations. The awards included a grand prize of 10 million won and three excellence awards of 7 million won each. Shin Bong-ki, an official, received the grand prize for securing emergency supplies of urea through direct negotiations with local manufacturers in Vietnam. He visited Vietnam and negotiated prices with three manufacturers, successfully securing more than two months' worth of supplies. Kim Gwang-hwan, another official, along with Kim Seong-hwan, a manager, and Jeong Hwa-yeon, a secretary, were recognized with excellence awards. Kim Gwang-hwan secured contracts for key raw materials, including aluminum, in response to the outbreak of war in the Middle East, increasing stockpiles and ensuring timely distribution to small and medium-sized enterprises while monitoring the supply situation for urea. Kim Seong-hwan expanded procurement market opportunities for companies in depopulated areas and non-capital regions, directly supporting them. He also developed a plan for the government to prioritize purchasing AI products and services as part of an initiative to boost the AI industry. Jeong Hwa-yeon met with over 400 procurement companies and more than 200 demand agencies over three months to establish a foundation for the autonomy of local government procurement. Baek Seung-bo, the head of the Procurement Agency, stated, "Public procurement requires accurate field assessments and continuous improvements to unreasonable systems, procedures, and practices. We will fairly evaluate and generously reward employees who actively seek solutions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:51:00

Yoon Suk Yeol Claims Legality of Martial Law Amid Special Investigation Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has asserted the legality of emergency martial law during his first questioning by the second comprehensive special investigation team, led by Special Prosecutor Kwon Chang-young, denying all related allegations. During a regular briefing on June 8 at the Gyeonggi Government Complex in Gwacheon, Special Prosecutor Kwon Young-bin stated that during the investigation on June 6, Yoon claimed, "I still believe that the emergency martial law is legal," when asked about its constitutionality and legality. Kwon noted that this statement is documented in the official record. According to Kwon, Yoon did not exercise his right to remain silent during the questioning and responded to the investigation team's inquiries, although he generally denied the allegations. Kwon explained that Yoon stated he believed the martial law was legal, which justified his instruction to inform foreign nations about it, and he did not acknowledge any wrongdoing or abuse of power. The questioning began at 10 a.m. on June 6. Initially, Yoon raised objections to the police investigator conducting the questioning, which hindered the process. Kwon mentioned, "Yoon expressed that prosecutors should conduct the investigation, but we clarified that the police officers assigned to the special prosecutor's office also have legitimate investigative authority." Eventually, Yoon agreed to be questioned by Police Superintendent Park Myung-woon, with Kwon present, and the afternoon session proceeded smoothly. The special investigation focused on allegations of obstruction of official duties, but Kwon indicated that the likelihood of additional summons is low. Kwon stated, "We asked about three-fifths of the prepared content in a condensed manner and had sufficient time to discuss important aspects. While there are some regrets, we believe the investigation concluded on June 6, and further questioning is unnecessary." The special investigation team plans to summon Yoon again on June 13 at 10 a.m. as a suspect in the rebellion charge under military law. They are examining the circumstances surrounding the declaration of emergency martial law and the deployment of military forces to the National Assembly and the National Election Commission.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-08 15:51:00