Kim Yong-hyun's bail release - An unimaginable event has occurred

Kim Yong-hyun's bail release - An unimaginable event has occurred

On June 16, 2025, the news of former Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-hyun being released on conditional bail shocked and angered many citizens. In a reality where serious crimes such as rebellion and destruction of constitutional order are being discussed again, the court that made such a decision felt absurd. Witnessing a former Defense Minister regaining freedom in a relatively short time left citizens feeling powerless. Although there was a right to continue seeing him in court, it was drowned out by the excuse of practical practice.

Judicial Formalism, Broken Trust

The court cited practical practices and procedural legitimacy. There were several conditions such as bail, electronic monitoring, and travel restrictions, but the public raised the question of 'why.' Without a clear answer as to why he was granted bail, no condition can be deemed justified. This decision reflects that mechanically executing the law is not justice, and citizens sought truth and accountability. However, they could not find such aspects in this decision.

Who is the judicial system for?

Kim Yong-hyun is not just a simple defendant. He was the head of the Ministry of Defense and has been indicted for posing a serious threat to the constitutional order. His release cannot be viewed as an isolated incident it could be interpreted as a signal that this country’s community has strayed from justice. While innocent individuals suffering in society and those committing minor offenses are being detained, doubts arise about whether it is truly fair for someone in power to be released on bail. The judiciary must understand that such judgments can undermine the trust of the people.

Can you bear this anger?

This incident goes beyond mere anger towards the case and illustrates how public outrage can lead to social emotions. Citizens are furious about the deception of the process, the evasion of responsibility, and the mockery of justice. Even if bail is deemed justified, if the outcome feels unjust, the judiciary cannot gain that trust. There is also growing concern about who would be held accountable if the bail conditions are not met. This could put the very existence of the judiciary to the test.

Collapsed Justice, Asking Again

Following Kim Yong-hyun's release, citizens are raising various questions to the judiciary. Questions about who the law we should believe in is for, why justice is repeatedly delayed, and whose side the law will take are existential questions being posed. The judiciary must provide answers not just for the simple handling of cases, but also about whether our society can remember justice through the law. It is a time to reaffirm that justice is not a simple concept, but exists when crimes are proven and responsibility follows.