Background of the Incident
Lim Seong-geun, who previously served as the commander of the 1st Marine Division, was involved in a significant controversy during the search operation for a missing person in July 2023. His statements and actions during this time have been scrutinized, particularly after the death of Corporal Chae Soo-geun. Lim’s insistence on continuing the search despite adverse weather conditions and conflicting orders has raised questions about the decisions made during the operation.
Operational Control and Conflicting Orders
At the time, operational control had been transferred to the Army, which led to a complex situation where different commands were involved. On July 18, 2023, at a flood-damaged site in Yecheon County, North Gyeongsang Province, Lim received instructions from Moon Byung-sam, the then-Army 50th Division Commander. Moon advised that due to the heavy rain, the Army would withdraw around 3 p.m., suggesting that the Marines should do the same. However, Lim disregarded these instructions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining morale by continuing the search until the scheduled end time of 4:30 p.m.
Aggressive Search Directives
Lim’s directives were not only about continuing the search but also about conducting it aggressively. He visited an artillery unit and encouraged the troops by promising extended leave if they found the missing person. This approach was aimed at boosting morale and ensuring a proactive search effort. Additionally, he urged the 1st Division to conduct searches by probing the bushes, which led to further actions being taken by the units under his command.
Controversial Actions and Consequences
The special counsel team investigating the incident highlighted that Lim’s emphasis on aggressive operations for media publicity resulted in excessive and unreasonable directives. One such directive was the “waist-deep entry guideline,” which led to dangerous conditions for the troops. The counsel stated that Lim’s professional negligence directly contributed to the death of Corporal Chae Soo-geun.
Denial of Charges
Despite the allegations, Lim and his supporters have denied all charges. They claim that they did not have operational control and never issued orders for an underwater search. This denial raises questions about the actual chain of command and the extent of Lim’s influence during the operation.
Conclusion
The incident involving Lim Seong-geun underscores the complexities of military operations, especially when multiple commands are involved. The events highlight the importance of clear communication and adherence to safety protocols. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the full context of the decisions made during the search operation and their impact on the lives of those involved. The case serves as a reminder of the critical need for responsible leadership and the potential consequences of aggressive tactics in high-stakes situations.