Former South Korean President Yoon Sentenced to Five Years in Prison

On January 16, a South Korean court sentenced former President Yoon Suk-yeol to five years in prison. The verdict comes in the first of eight criminal cases related to the imposition of martial law and other charges, which had led to his removal from office.

In December 2024, Yoon implemented a short-term martial law, which triggered massive public protests demanding his resignation. Following this, Yoon faced impeachment, was arrested, and removed from the presidency. The most serious criminal charge against him is that the imposition of martial law amounted to an act of rebellion. The prosecution has sought the death penalty, with a decision expected next month.

In the January 16 case, the Seoul Central District Court sentenced Yoon for resisting detention, fabricating the martial law declaration, and avoiding a legally mandated full cabinet meeting. Meanwhile, the National Assembly passed a bill on January 16 to launch a special investigation into Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law actions, subsequent events, and allegations involving his wife.