Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Seoul Central District Court after being found guilty of insurrection related to his declaration of martial law in December 2024. The court characterized this action as a calculated attempt to “paralyze” the National Assembly. Presiding Judge Ji Gwi-yeon stated that evidence indicated Yoon’s leadership in the insurrection was firmly established. The judge also noted that the martial law declaration incurred substantial social costs and highlighted the lack of remorse shown by Yoon for his actions.

Disputed Sentencing and Public Reaction

A special prosecutor had sought the death penalty for Yoon, asserting that his conduct posed a critical danger to the nation’s democratic framework and warranted the maximum punishment. Analysts, however, had predicted a life sentence as a likely outcome, pointing out that Yoon’s poorly executed attempt to seize power did not result in any fatalities. South Korea has maintained a moratorium on executions since 1997 amid calls for the abolition of the death penalty.

As Yoon arrived at the court, a strong police presence was evident. Supporters gathered outside the judicial complex, while critics intensified their calls for a harsher penalty as Yoon was transported in a prison bus.

Upcoming Cases Against Former Officials

The court also plans to address cases involving seven former military and police officials who are accused of facilitating Yoon’s martial law declaration. Yoon, known for his conservative stance, justified the six-hour decree by claiming it was essential to counter “anti-state” liberal factions that impeded his governance. The martial law was rescinded after lawmakers managed to bypass military blockades and unanimously voted to nullify the decree.

Impeachment and Ongoing Legal Challenges

Yoon faced impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, leading to his suspension from office. The Constitutional Court formally removed him from his position in April 2025. He has been in custody since July 2025, contending with multiple legal battles, with the charge of rebellion carrying the most severe consequences. In a previous ruling, he was sentenced to five years in prison for resisting arrest, fabricating the martial law declaration, and not convening a legally required full Cabinet meeting before enacting the measure.

Consequences for Cabinet Members

In related legal proceedings, two of Yoon’s former Cabinet members have also been convicted. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo received a 23-year sentence for his attempts to sanction the martial law decree through a Cabinet Council meeting, along with falsifying documents and providing false testimony. Han has since appealed the decision.

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