South Korea concluded a major Martial Law Crisis as former President Yoon Suk Yeol received a life sentence for leading an insurrection. The Seoul Central District Court ruled that Yoon tried to subvert the Constitution by deploying the military to the National Assembly. Consequently, the verdict marks the end of one of the country’s most severe constitutional crises since democratization.
Presiding Judge Ji Gwi-yeon said Yoon’s actions aimed to paralyze the legislative branch and undermine state authority. The court emphasized that the martial law declaration constituted a violent uprising targeting the constitutional order.
The special counsel requested the death penalty during closing arguments on January 13, citing Yoon’s lack of remorse and central role in destabilizing governance. Prosecutors argued that Yoon and his co-conspirators tried to monopolize power and extend their rule through martial law measures.
The defense rejected all charges, claiming the declaration aimed to protect constitutional order. They maintained that Yoon acted as a safeguard rather than an insurrectionist. However, the court determined that the measures met the legal definition of insurrection under South Korean law.
Several senior officials also received prison sentences for their involvement. The court sentenced former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun to 30 years for abuse of power and participation in the insurrection. Noh Sang-won, chief of the Korea Defense Intelligence Command, received 18 years, while former National Police Agency Commissioner General Cho Ji-ho received 12 years.
Other officials received lighter sentences. The court sentenced former Seoul Police Chief Kim Bong-shik to 10 years, and the chief of the National Assembly Police Security Guard to three years. The court acquitted two additional defendants who faced charges related to the martial law decree.
The verdict sparked an immediate reaction in the courtroom. Yoon supporters shouted in protest, highlighting deep societal polarization. The court noted that the martial law crisis caused extensive social disruption, with multiple witnesses reporting personal and professional damage.
The crisis began 443 days ago following Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law, which intensified political instability and triggered a presidential election. Earlier rulings against then-Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and then-Interior Minister Lee Sang-min characterized the martial law decree as insurrection.
Legal analysts say the ruling underscores South Korea’s commitment to constitutional checks and balances. Observers note that the life sentence may deter future leaders from bypassing legislative authority.
Looking ahead, authorities must focus on political and social reconciliation. They need to restore public confidence and address divisions exposed by the Martial Law Crisis. Moreover, the case may influence future legislation on executive powers and emergency authority.
Ultimately, the court’s decision closes a turbulent chapter in South Korea’s history while reinforcing the rule of law. The Martial Law Crisis serves as a cautionary example for political leaders nationwide.
