Seoul: A South Korean court on Thursday sentenced former president Yoon Suk Yeol to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of leading an insurrection linked to his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
The Seoul Central District Court ruled that Yoon’s actions seriously undermined the constitutional order and threatened the country’s democratic system. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty, but the court chose life imprisonment, noting the gravity of the offence while also considering that no deaths occurred during the brief crisis.
The charges stem from events on December 3, 2024, when Yoon declared martial law in an effort to overcome political deadlock with an opposition controlled National Assembly. Security forces were deployed around the parliament building, and lawmakers were initially blocked from entering. The assembly later convened and voted to overturn the decree within hours.
The move triggered nationwide protests and a political crisis, leading parliament to impeach Yoon days later. In April 2025, the Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment and formally removed him from office.
Yoon has been in detention since 2025 and is facing several legal cases related to abuse of power and obstruction of democratic processes. He is expected to appeal the verdict.
Several senior officials linked to the martial law attempt have also received prison sentences, reflecting the broad scope of the investigation into the crisis.
The ruling marks a historic moment for South Korea, demonstrating the strength of its legal institutions and constitutional safeguards. Outside the court, both supporters and critics gathered, highlighting the political divisions that continue to shape public opinion.
Legal experts say the case will have long term implications for governance and civil military relations in the country, while reinforcing the principle that no leader is above the law.