A South Korean court has sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison for obstructing justice and other crimes linked to his controversial martial law declaration last year. The verdict was delivered on Friday by Judge Baek Dae-hyun at the Central District Court in Seoul.
Yoon’s brief suspension of civilian rule on December 3, 2024, sparked nationwide protests and a parliamentary standoff. The court found that he deliberately blocked investigators from detaining him and excluded key cabinet members from a martial law planning meeting.
“Despite his duty to uphold the Constitution, the defendant displayed blatant disregard for the law,” the judge said. “His culpability is extremely grave.”
The court, however, acquitted Yoon of forging official documents, citing insufficient evidence. He has seven days to appeal the decision.
Prosecutors had sought a 10-year prison term, arguing that Yoon abused his power during the martial law imposition. Yoon, meanwhile, denied breaking any law and maintained that his actions were a lawful exercise of presidential authority.
The former leader faces multiple ongoing trials. One separate case, regarding his alleged role in an insurrection, will see its verdict announced on February 19. Prosecutors in that case have demanded the death penalty, calling Yoon the “ringleader of an insurrection.”
Yoon was seen smiling in court during the proceedings, demonstrating his defiance. Experts say that even if convicted, the death sentence is unlikely to be carried out, as South Korea has observed a moratorium on executions since 1997.
In addition, Yoon faces another investigation over alleged drone flights to North Korea, which could result in further charges.
Supporters of Yoon have held rallies near his residence, showing their continued backing. Despite the verdict, the former president remains firm in his position that the martial law declaration was necessary to protect the nation and uphold the Constitution.
