In a dramatic and unprecedented decision, a court in South Korea has sentenced former president Yoon Suk-yeol to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of insurrection. The ruling is tied to his controversial attempt to impose martial law in December 2024, a move that triggered a severe political crisis.
According to the court’s findings, Yoon unlawfully mobilized military and police forces in an effort to exert control over the National Assembly and detain political opponents. Although the decree lasted only hours before being overturned by lawmakers, the consequences were far-reaching: impeachment, removal from office, and criminal prosecution.
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Prosecutors had sought the death penalty, but the court opted for life imprisonment, citing legal considerations and judicial standards. The verdict has ignited strong reactions across the country, with demonstrations from both critics and supporters.
What does a life sentence imply in this case?
It means Yoon will remain incarcerated for the rest of his life unless a higher court overturns or reduces the sentence on appeal.
