Will Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo’s 23-Year Sentence for Rebellion Stand in Appellate Ruling?

The Hankyoreh is closely following the appellate court's decision on the case of former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, a pivotal figure implicated in the alleged 12.3 emergency martial law incident. The first trial handed down a severe sentence of 23 years, significantly exceeding the prosecution's request, and the upcoming ruling will determine if this harsh judgment stands.

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The appellate court's ruling on former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who was sentenced to 23 years in prison in the first trial for his involvement in the 12.3 emergency martial law, is coming out.

At the heart of the case are accusations that Han, in his capacity as Prime Minister, actively participated in the martial law plot. The first trial found him guilty of creating a false appearance of deliberation among State Council members and attempting to secure their signatures on martial law documents. These charges, including forging official documents and perjury, paint a picture of complicity. However, Han vehemently denies these allegations, asserting that he was merely informed of the martial law declaration and actively tried to dissuade the former president from proceeding.

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The first trial court determined that Han 'created the appearance that emergency martial law was declared through deliberation by the State Council' and 'attempted to obtain signatures from State Council members after the declaration of martial law,' judging that he 'actively participated in Yoon Suk Yeol's rebellion.'

The first trial's reasoning placed significant emphasis on Han's role as the 'second-in-command' and his constitutional obligation to defend the nation's legal framework. The court argued that his failure to prevent the martial law, despite his position, constituted a grave dereliction of duty. This interpretation, which elevates the Prime Minister's responsibility beyond mere execution of orders to an active role in upholding constitutional order, is a key point of contention that the appellate court must now consider.

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I was shocked to be informed of the emergency martial law declaration without knowing the reason, and although I persuaded him several times, President Yoon did not listen to the opinions of me and other State Council members.

The outcome of this appellate ruling is significant not only for Han Duck-soo but also for the broader implications regarding the accountability of high-ranking officials during times of constitutional crisis. The Hankyoreh believes that transparency and adherence to due process are paramount. We will be closely monitoring the proceedings, including the live broadcast, to provide our readers with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and political ramifications of this landmark case.

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The first trial court heavily weighed Han's responsibility as the 'second-in-command' and his duty to uphold the constitution.