Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Receives Life Sentence for Insurrection
By John Nada·Feb 19, 2026·4 min read
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment for leading an insurrection during a martial law declaration, impacting the nation’s political landscape.
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces life imprisonment after being found guilty of leading an insurrection during a controversial martial law declaration in December 2024. The Seoul Central District Court's ruling, delivered by Judge Jee Kui-youn, was a lighter sentence than the death penalty sought by prosecutors, reflecting the court's assessment of Yoon's actions aimed at subverting the constitutional order. The court's verdict highlighted that Yoon not only led the insurrection but also involved a significant number of individuals in his attempts to consolidate power. His martial law declaration sparked severe unrest, with troops deployed to the National Assembly and clashes occurring between military personnel and protesters.
This chaotic series of events culminated in Yoon's impeachment, marking a significant moment in South Korea's political history. SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - APRIL 21: Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived for his criminal trial on insurrection charges at a courtroom of the Seoul Central District Court on April 21, 2025. During this second trial regarding Yoon's charge of leading a rebellion, the court meticulously examined the evidence and testimonies that painted a clear picture of the former president's intentions and actions during the martial law declaration. Yoon's defense argued that his actions were constitutional, claiming they were intended to protect freedom and sovereignty amid what he described as anti-state activities by the opposition party.
However, the court found no signs of remorse from Yoon, who had previously refused to attend court sessions. Judge Jee stated that Yoon took the lead in planning the crime and involved a large number of people, underlining the severity of his actions. The martial law declaration, which marked the first instance of such a measure in South Korea in 44 years, was made during a late-night address on December 3, 2024. Yoon claimed that the then-opposition Democratic Party of Korea was engaging in anti-state activities and colluding with North Korean communists.
His dramatic move was seen as a desperate attempt to cling to power, as he sought to seize control over the judiciary and legislature. During the tumultuous events that unfolded, troops were deployed to the National Assembly, leading to violent clashes with protesters. Television footage captured the chaos, showing special forces breaking windows to access the parliamentary chamber, while staffers barricaded doors with furniture in a frantic effort to resist the military's encroachment. The situation escalated further when then-defense minister Kim Yong-hyun ordered troops to forcibly remove individuals from inside the National Assembly building.
Despite Yoon's bold declaration of martial law, the order was overturned within just three hours. A remarkable show of unity among lawmakers ensued, as 190 of the 300 National Assembly members swiftly gathered and unanimously voted to nullify Yoon's martial law. This decisive action showcased the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions. Yoon eventually lifted the martial law about six hours after announcing it, but the damage was already done.
Following these events, Yoon faced impeachment just 11 days later, and was officially removed from office on April 4, 2025. This historic political upheaval not only highlighted the fragility of governance in South Korea but also served as a reminder of the consequences of disregarding democratic principles. In addition to Yoon's life sentence, the court also imposed substantial sentences on several other officials involved in the failed martial law bid. Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun received a 30-year prison term, while former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was sentenced to 23 years in prison.
Former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min faced a seven-year sentence. These figures reflect the court's commitment to holding accountable those who participated in this insurrection attempt, signaling a broader message about the rule of law in South Korea. Yoon's case has raised questions about political stability and governance in South Korea, emphasizing the ongoing repercussions of this insurrection attempt. As the defendants have the right to appeal the ruling within a week, the political landscape remains charged with uncertainty.
The ramifications of this verdict will likely resonate throughout South Korean society, impacting public trust in political institutions and governance. The court's decision was aired live on South Korea's major broadcasters, reflecting the high public interest in the proceedings and the significance of the trial in the nation’s political discourse. As a former president and the first sitting South Korean leader to be arrested in such a dramatic manner, Yoon's case serves as a pivotal chapter in the nation's contemporary history. As South Korea navigates the aftermath of this insurrection and the broader implications for its democracy, the political climate will undoubtedly evolve.
Observers are left to ponder the future of South Korean politics in light of Yoon's conviction and the critical lessons learned from this tumultuous episode.