Former South Korean Minister Gets 25 Years for Role in Failed Martial Law

A Seoul court has sentenced a former South Korean justice minister to 25 years in prison for his involvement in a failed martial law declaration. The conviction stems from the events of December 2024, when then-President Yoon Suk-yeol attempted to impose martial law.

The former minister faced charges of aiding rebellion and abusing his power during the brief period the martial law was in effect. The court found him guilty, deeming his actions a significant threat to the democratic order. The sentence reflects the gravity with which the judiciary views the attempted overreach of executive power.

This ruling marks a significant legal development following the unprecedented and short-lived martial law announcement. The prosecution argued that the minister's actions were instrumental in the plan, which ultimately failed and led to widespread public outcry and political fallout. The 25-year sentence sends a strong message about accountability for high-ranking officials involved in such actions.