Former South Korean President Yoon Imprisoned for Five Years Over Martial Law Attempt

South Korean court has sentenced former President Yoon Suk-yeol to five years in prison for abuse of power, obstruction of justice, and forgery of documents related to his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024.

This verdict marks the first judgment among four separate cases filed against the former leader following his removal from office.

Court Findings and Rulings The presiding judge stated during Friday’s hearing that Mr. Yoon’s actions “plunged the nation into a political crisis” and noted that the defendant “showed no remorse for his wrongful actions.” The court further emphasized that while the president has a constitutional duty to protect the law, Mr. Yoon had actively disregarded those obligations.

The court’s findings included several specific violations:

• Using presidential bodyguards to obstruct his own arrest.
• Failing to consult the cabinet before declaring martial law.
• Forging and subsequently destroying documents claiming the Prime Minister and Defense Minister supported the martial law decree.

Defense and Public Reaction Mr. Yoon has denied all charges, arguing that the warrants against him were illegal and that the law does not strictly mandate cabinet consultation for the exercise of emergency powers. His legal team has been granted one week to file an appeal.

Outside the courthouse, approximately 100 supporters gathered, carrying red banners with slogans such as “Yoon shall prevail.” While some supporters reacted with outbursts when the guilty verdict was read, others remained silent.

Future Legal Proceedings The former president still faces additional charges ranging from election law violations to treason. The most severe charge—insurrection—carries a potential death penalty requested by prosecutors. A verdict for the insurrection case is expected in February.

Mr. Yoon’s failed martial law attempt occurred six months before the current President, Lee Jae-myung, took office. This legal battle highlights the deep political polarization in South Korea; a December poll indicated that nearly 30% of citizens do not believe the martial law decree constituted an act of rebellion.

Mr. Yoon is the first former leader to be imprisoned since former President Park Geun-hye, who was sentenced to 20 years in 2021 before receiving a later pardon.