Seoul: South Korean prosecutors on Friday, December 26, formally sought a 10-year prison sentence for former president Yoon Suk Yeol over charges linked to his controversial attempt to impose martial law last year – a move that plunged the country into its most serious political crisis in decades.
Yoon briefly suspended civilian rule on December 3, 2024, marking South Korea’s first declaration of martial law in more than 40 years. The decision triggered mass nationwide protests, sparked fierce resistance in parliament, and ultimately led to his removal from office.
According to prosecutors, Yoon abused his constitutional powers by ordering military involvement in civilian governance without sufficient legal justification. They argued that the move undermined democratic institutions and threatened public order in a country long regarded as one of Asia’s most stable democracies.
“The defendant’s actions constituted a grave violation of constitutional norms and democratic principles,” prosecutors told the court, adding that the attempted imposition of martial law had caused widespread public fear and political instability.
The former president’s defence team rejected the prosecution’s case, maintaining that Yoon acted within the scope of his authority during what they described as a national security emergency. Lawyers argued that the decision was short-lived and reversed before full implementation, insisting it did not warrant criminal punishment.
However, critics say the declaration was an unprecedented overreach that evoked painful memories of South Korea’s authoritarian past, when martial law was used to suppress dissent. Within hours of the announcement, thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of Seoul, while opposition lawmakers confronted security forces inside the National Assembly.
Parliament later voted to nullify the martial law order, and investigations were launched into Yoon’s conduct, eventually leading to his impeachment and criminal trial.
Legal analysts say the case carries profound implications for South Korea’s political future, setting a precedent on the limits of presidential power and accountability. If convicted, Yoon would become one of the most senior leaders in the country’s history to face a lengthy prison sentence.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict in the coming months, as South Koreans continue to debate the balance between executive authority and democratic safeguards in times of crisis.
