Holiday Ayo - Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun is said to have attempted suicide shortly before being officially arrested due to the martial law drama.

Senior prison official Shin Yong Hae said on Wednesday (11/12) that Kim had attempted suicide minutes before his arrest was officially announced.

"Former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun attempted suicide at Seoul's Dongbu Detention Center," Shin said, as quoted by AFP.

Shin said the former Defense Minister attempted suicide using a rope from his clothes while in the toilet.

"A member of the control room staff intervened, and when they managed to open the door, he gave up the attempt," Shin said.

Shin also said Kim is currently under protection in a secure cell and is in good health.

"The results of the medical examination showed that the inmate's health status is good with no abnormalities, and he is currently living a normal life at the facility," the South Korean Justice Ministry said in a statement to AFP.

Kim was arrested on Tuesday (10/12) after being accused of being involved in the chaos caused by the martial law unilaterally declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 3.

He was accused of "engaging in important tasks during the rebellion" and abusing his authority "to obstruct the exercise of rights."

Several media outlets previously said Kim was the mastermind behind the martial law declaration because he recommended the status to Yoon and sent military troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from holding a meeting.

Kim issued an apology through his lawyer on Tuesday, stating that he bears full responsibility for the chaos that occurred.

He also said that his subordinates "were only following my orders and fulfilling their duties."