In a stunning turn of events, a South Korean court has sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison for abusing his power and obstructing his own arrest. This ruling marks the first judicial decision linked to the events surrounding Yoon’s failed attempt to declare martial law in December 2024.
The ruling, handed down by the Seoul Central District Court, found Yoon guilty of “special obstruction of official duties, abuse of power, and falsifying documents.” The presiding judge, Baek Dae-hyun, stated that Yoon “disregarded the constitution” and “showed no remorse” for his actions.
The incident in question occurred when Yoon, stunned the nation by declaring martial law in the late hours of December 3, 2024. He dispatched police and armed troops to the National Assembly, prompting lawmakers to rush to override the decree. The emergency rule lasted six hours before Yoon backed down.
In a separate case, prosecutors are seeking the death penalty or life imprisonment for Yoon, alleging that he attempted to use military force to paralyse the legislature, arrest political opponents, and seize control of the national election commission.
The court also criticised Yoon’s conduct in the lead-up to the martial law declaration, stating that he selectively summoned only loyal cabinet members to a late-night meeting, excluding nine others to rubber-stamp the decision without meaningful deliberation.
“Emergency martial law should only be declared in the most exceptional circumstances when no other means exist to resolve a national crisis,” Baek said. “The constitution specifically requires state council deliberation precisely to prevent presidential abuse of power and arbitrary action.”
Friday’s conviction marks the opening act in a reckoning without parallel in South Korea’s democratic history. Yoon faces seven additional criminal trials, including the insurrection case, where prosecutors are seeking either the death penalty or life imprisonment.
Other cases, some brought by separate special prosecutors, include allegations that Yoon ordered drone incursions into North Korean airspace to provoke a response that could be used as a pretext for martial law.
The former president’s wife, Kim Keon Hee, is also facing a separate verdict on January 28th on stock manipulation and bribery charges, with prosecutors demanding 15 years’ imprisonment and a 2bn won (£1m) fine.
The unfolding events in South Korea have shaken the foundations of the country’s democratic institutions, raising concerns about the abuse of power and the rule of law. As the trials continue, the nation watches with bated breath, awaiting the final verdict on the former president’s fate.
