A South Korean court on Friday sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison over his role in the controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024. The verdict, which was broadcast live, marks the first major criminal ruling against the former leader since his removal from office.
The Seoul Central District Court found Yoon guilty of multiple charges, including obstruction of justice and falsification of official documents. The court ruled that Yoon had unlawfully interfered with judicial procedures, particularly by obstructing the execution of arrest warrants related to the martial law decree and by violating established legal processes.
According to the court, Yoon failed to follow constitutional and statutory requirements when attempting to impose martial law, actions that were later deemed illegal and unconstitutional. Prosecutors argued that his conduct seriously undermined democratic governance and the rule of law.
Reuters reported that several criminal cases were filed against Yoon following his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. Friday’s ruling represents the first substantive judicial outcome in those proceedings.
The court also upheld charges related to the fabrication and manipulation of government documents connected to the martial law order, further reinforcing the gravity of the former president’s offenses.
The sentencing of Yoon Suk Yeol adds him to a growing list of former South Korean presidents who have faced criminal convictions, reflecting the country’s strict accountability standards for political leaders.
Sources: BBC, Reuters, Al Jazeera.