Top South Korean Intelligence Official Arrested Over Data Leak

A South Korean military intelligence official has been arrested for allegedly leaking classified data on overseas agents to a Chinese individual of Korean descent. The data breach involved information on 'black agents,' non-official spies. The defence ministry has confirmed the arrest but refrained from further comments due to ongoing investigations.

An official from South Korea's military intelligence command has been arrested under suspicion of leaking classified information, the defence ministry confirmed Tuesday.

The suspect, affiliated with the Korea Defense Intelligence Command (KDIC), allegedly transferred sensitive data to a personal laptop before passing it to a foreign contact, according to media reports.

The breach identified undercover agents known as 'black agents.' The official, who denies the allegations, claims their laptop was hacked. Lawmakers are investigating potential violations, emphasizing the severe implications for national security.

(With inputs from agencies.)