Ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol Sentenced to Five Years in Prison Over Martial Law Bid

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to five years in prison on Friday for abuse of power, obstructing justice, and falsifying documents related to his failed 2024 martial law decree, according to the BBC. The sentencing marks the first verdict in a series of eight criminal trials stemming from Yoon's impeachment and removal from office following widespread protests, NPR reported.

The court's decision was based on Yoon's actions surrounding the short-lived martial law decree, which triggered nationwide turmoil and sparked protests as members of parliament rushed to overturn the decision. According to the BBC, a judge stated that Yoon's actions "plunged the country into political crisis," and noted that Yoon had "consistently shown no remorse."

Yoon claimed the decree was intended to inform the public about parliamentary obstruction, NPR reported. However, prosecutors argued that the decree amounted to a rebellion, for which they are seeking the death penalty in a separate trial.

Yoon was impeached in 2024 for his martial law attempt, the BBC reported. This initial sentencing addresses charges related to defying detention attempts and fabricating the proclamation, according to NPR. Further trials are expected to address other charges related to his conduct while in office.