In a landmark ruling on Friday, a South Korean court sentenced former President Yoon Suk-yeol to five years in prison for obstructing justice and other crimes tied to his brief but tumultuous declaration of martial law in December 2024.
Yoon’s sudden suspension of civilian rule sparked nationwide protests and a tense confrontation in parliament, marking one of the most controversial chapters in South Korea’s recent political history.
At Seoul’s Central District Court, Judge Baek Dae-hyun found Yoon guilty of blocking investigators from detaining him and excluding cabinet members from key martial law planning meetings. “Despite having a duty, above all others, to uphold the Constitution and observe the rule of law as president, the defendant instead displayed an attitude that disregarded the Constitution,” Judge Baek said, calling Yoon’s actions “extremely grave.”
However, Yoon was acquitted of forging official documents due to insufficient evidence. He has seven days to appeal the verdict. Prosecutors had sought a 10-year sentence, while Yoon maintained that his actions were fully within his presidential authority.
Yoon’s defiance has continued even in court. During hearings earlier this week, he argued that his declaration of martial law was a lawful exercise of emergency powers aimed at protecting the nation and maintaining constitutional order. He also accused the opposition of imposing an “unconstitutional dictatorship” through legislative control.
In a separate, high-profile case, prosecutors recently called for the death penalty, accusing Yoon of being the “ringleader of an insurrection.” While South Korea has an unofficial moratorium on executions since 1997, the demand reflects the seriousness of the charges.
The court is expected to issue a ruling on the insurrection charges on February 19, 2026. Yoon also faces another trial over allegations that he ordered drone flights over North Korea to strengthen his case for martial law.
This historic verdict highlights the fragility of democratic institutions and the accountability of leaders in times of crisis. For many South Koreans, it is a moment of reflection on the importance of rule of law, civic responsibility, and transparency in government leadership.
