Supreme Court seeks over $8 million in damages for courthouse riot

South Korea's Supreme Court is pursuing legal action, seeking over 1.17 billion won (approximately $8 million USD) in damages from individuals involved in a riot at the Seoul Western District Court. The lawsuit specifically targets five individuals whose property destruction was confirmed among those who have received finalized guilty verdicts.

The court is also exploring the possibility of filing additional lawsuits against other participants as their convictions are finalized. This move comes after the court building was severely damaged in January of the previous year by radical protesters demonstrating against the arrest of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. The protesters caused extensive damage to the building's exterior and interior, including smashing doors and destroying office equipment.

Beyond the material damage, estimated at 620 million won for repairs and 1.17 billion won for restoration, the riot left a significant psychological impact. Twenty-five court employees who were present reported experiencing trauma and required psychological counseling. One police officer testified in court that he feared for his life while confronting protesters armed with fire extinguishers.

The incident is seen as setting a dangerous precedent, suggesting that judicial institutions can be threatened if verdicts are unsatisfactory. Judges who issued arrest warrants, including the one for former President Yoon, faced doxxing and threats. The number of requests for judicial protection increased significantly, highlighting the ongoing repercussions. The court emphasizes the need to clearly demonstrate that criminal acts undermining the rule of law carry not only criminal penalties but also substantial financial consequences.