▲ This undated photo, provided by Yonhap News TV, shows the defense ministry emblem. (Yonhap)

defense ministry-blacklist probe

Defense ministry launches probe into counterintelligence command over alleged 'blacklist' of ex-lawmaker

SEOUL, Feb. 3 (Yonhap) -- The defense ministry said Tuesday it has launched an investigation into the Defense Counterintelligence Command over allegedly drafting a "blacklist" of military officers with supposed links to a former lawmaker in 2023.

The move comes after a local news outlet revealed that the Defense Counterintelligence Command has drawn up a list of judge advocates who had connections to former Democratic Party (DP) lawmaker Choe Kang-wook.

The list reportedly included Choe's positions during his service as judge advocate, his activities after being discharged and the names of some 30 judge advocates with alleged ties.

A ministry official said the command has conducted an intensive inspection into suspicions involving the so-called blacklist last year, and those involved were all subject to personnel transfer.

"The case is currently under investigation by the Defense Special Investigation Headquarters, and it will be sternly dealt with based on the findings," the official added.

The command is suspected of having referred to the list when carrying out personnel shuffles.

The special investigative unit is known to have secured other similar documents outlining the personal information and political dispositions of incumbent generals and reserve officers, and launched an investigation into them.

(END)

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]