Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, a key figure in President Yoon Suk Yeol’s surprise martial law move last week, has waived his right to a court hearing to review a request for a warrant to detain him as prosecutors pursue treason and other charges.

Kim announced the decision in a statement released by his representative on Tuesday, saying he bears sole responsibility for the martial law incident.

The former minister then appealed for leniency for his subordinate soldiers, saying they were only faithful to his orders and performed their assigned duties.

He also apologized to the people for causing great anxiety and inconvenience. 

Kim was supposed to attend a court hearing on the warrant at 3 p.m., but in view of his decision the Seoul Central District Court will deliberate only written materials submitted by the prosecution before deciding whether to grant the warrant.

The decision is likely to come as early as Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.