Kim Yonghyun's Side to Appeal Court's Bail Decision, File for Stay of Execution

On June 16, representatives for former Minister of National Defense Kim Yonghyun announced that they would appeal the court's decision to grant bail and would file for a stay of execution.

Kim Yonghyun, former Minister of National Defense. Yonhap News

Kim's legal team issued a statement that day, saying, "The court's decision to grant bail is not a release order, but merely a means to unlawfully extend the state of detention." They added, "In order to protect not only Minister Kim's rights, but also the rights of commanders at all levels and officers of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces who carried out martial law duties in accordance with the minister's orders, we will appeal the bail decision and apply for a stay of execution." The statement continued, "Because the illegality of the bail decision is significant, we will make sure to correct the court's illegal and unjust decision, even if former Minister Kim is not released."

Previously, on the same day, the 25th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court (Chief Judge Ji Guyoun) decided to grant Kim conditional bail. The bail conditions include a deposit of 100 million won, restrictions on residence, appearing at dates and locations designated by the court, and submitting a written pledge not to destroy evidence. The court stated, "Under the current Criminal Procedure Act, the maximum detention period at the first trial stage is six months, and it is difficult to complete the trial within that period in this case. It is standard practice to impose bail conditions to secure the defendant's appearance and prevent destruction of evidence as the detention period nears its end. These factors were taken into consideration."