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Court sentences Yoon Suk Yeol to five-year prison term
South Korea's former president Yoon Suk Yeol was handed a five-year jail sentence on Friday for abuse of power, obstructing justice, and falsifying documents tied to his failed 2024 martial law declaration. The ruling marks the first verdict in four ongoing trials linked to the controversial decree, which plunged the nation into political chaos.
Judicial rebuke for constitutional breach
A Seoul court found Yoon guilty of deploying presidential bodyguards to evade arrest, bypassing cabinet consultations before imposing martial law, and fabricating a document falsely claiming endorsement from the prime minister and defense minister. The judge condemned Yoon's actions as a betrayal of his constitutional duty, stating he had "consistently shown no remorse."
"The accused had a duty to safeguard the constitution and law but turned his back on them."
Presiding judge, Seoul Central District Court
Protests and political fallout
Yoon's short-lived martial law decree in 2024 sparked nationwide unrest, with lawmakers rushing to the National Assembly to overturn the decision. While tens of thousands protested against the move, Yoon's supporters staged counter-demonstrations, though in smaller numbers. On Friday, around 100 backers gathered outside the courthouse, some holding banners reading, "Yoon, again! Make Korea great again," while others shouted at the judge during the verdict.
Looming insurrection trial and appeals
Prosecutors had sought a 10-year sentence for Friday's charges but fell short of their demand. Both sides have seven days to appeal. The former president faces more severe allegations in upcoming trials, including insurrection-a charge carrying a potential death penalty, with a verdict expected next month. Yoon has denied all wrongdoing, arguing the arrest warrant was invalid and that cabinet consensus is not legally required for emergency powers.
Legal experts note that South Korean courts often show leniency when defendants acknowledge guilt, but Yoon's defiance may lead to harsher penalties. His predecessor, Park Geun-hye, received a 20-year sentence for corruption in 2021 but was later pardoned.
Public opinion remains divided
A December survey revealed nearly 30% of South Koreans do not view Yoon's martial law declaration as insurrection. His supporters continue to portray him as a victim of political persecution, deepening the country's partisan divide. Six months after the failed decree, voters elected opposition leader Lee Jae-myung in a landslide, but Yoon's trials have reignited tensions.
