The second special counsel closed the case without indictment, finding no charges in the incitement-to-insurrection abetment allegation against Jeonbuk State Governor Kim Kwan-young.
On the 7th, the special counsel said it investigated allegations that Governor Kim ordered the closure of the provincial government building during martial law on Dec. 3, 2024, but found insufficient grounds to hold criminal liability.
The investigation began on Feb. — after a regional political party filed a complaint against Governor Kim and others, claiming that orders were given to close the Jeonbuk provincial government and some city and county offices on the day of martial law. Governor Kim has countered that there was no closure at the time and that the security posture remained at normal levels.
The special counsel questioned provincial government officials and Governor Kim but was said to have found no circumstances sufficient to prove the allegations.
Governor Kim had earlier said that if the charges were recognized, he would retire from politics. He plans to run again as an independent for Jeonbuk governor in the local elections in June.
Meanwhile, Governor Kim separately faces allegations of violating the Public Official Election Act. A video showing him handing cash to acquaintances in Jeonju last year sparked controversy, and Governor Kim explained that it was for designated-driver expense and that the full amount was later retrieved.