A South Korean court has sentenced former President Yoon Suk-yeol to life imprisonment for his attempt to impose martial law in 2024. This ruling follows a series of legal challenges faced by the former leader, who has consistently denied the allegations against him.
Prosecutors had initially sought the death penalty, arguing that Yoon’s unconstitutional actions undermined the functioning of the National Assembly and the Election Commission, effectively dismantling the liberal-democratic constitutional order. The court found that his attempt to declare martial law was both illegal and a threat to democratic governance.
Yoon, 65, contends that he acted within his presidential authority and claimed his actions were intended to address disruptions caused by opposition parties interfering with government operations. His defense maintains that he was justified in his actions during a time of political unrest.
This case marks a significant moment in South Korea’s judicial history, as the country has not carried out any executions since 1997, despite having issued a death sentence as recently as 2016.
The court’s decision follows earlier rulings against Yoon, including a five-year prison sentence handed down in January for obstructing attempts to arrest him related to the same martial law case. Additionally, former First Lady Kim Kyung-hee was sentenced to 20 months in prison for accepting lavish gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors.
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment for attempting to impose martial law, a ruling that underscores the judiciary's role in upholding democratic principles. The case reflects ongoing tensions in South Korea's political landscape, particularly regarding the balance of power between government branches.