Former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The decision follows his conviction for leading an insurrection during his declaration of martial law in December 2024.
The verdict was delivered by Seoul Central District Court Judge Jee Kui-youn. Although prosecutors had pushed for the death penalty, the court imposed a life sentence instead. The ruling was broadcast live across major South Korean television networks.
According to the court, Yoon played a direct role in undermining the nation’s constitutional order. The judge said he led an insurrection and attempted to disrupt democratic institutions.
In the verdict, Judge Jee stated that Yoon “took the lead in planning the crime and involved a large number of people.”
The court also noted that it was “difficult to see any sign of remorse from the defendant, who also refused to appear in court.”
Yoon had reportedly declined to attend several court sessions. However, the trial continued in his absence.
The court found that he ordered the military to detain key figures during the martial law declaration.
Among those targeted was the current president, Lee Jae Myung. Furthermore, Yoon was accused of trying to “paralyze” parliament by sending troops to block the National Assembly.
Soldiers and police were deployed around the assembly building. Clashes later broke out between security forces and protesters. Meanwhile, lawmakers gathered inside the chamber despite the blockade.
Within three hours, 190 of the 300 lawmakers voted unanimously to overturn the martial law order. Therefore, the emergency rule collapsed quickly. Yoon officially lifted it about six hours after it was announced.
During the final hearing, special counsel Cho Eun-suk’s team argued that Yoon declared martial law “with the purpose of remaining in power for a long time by seizing the judiciary and legislature.”
However, Yoon maintained his innocence. He claimed the move was within his authority and meant to “safeguard freedom and sovereignty.”
Several former officials were also punished. Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun received 30 years in prison. Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was sentenced to 23 years. In addition, former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min was given seven years.
Yoon was impeached 11 days after the failed martial law attempt. He was formally removed from office on April 4, 2025.The defendants have one week to appeal the ruling.
