Seoul, February 24, 2026 – The Europe Today: South Korea’s former president Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced last week to life imprisonment after being convicted of rebellion related to his imposition of martial law in 2024.
According to the court’s ruling, Yoon’s declaration of martial law amounted to a deliberate attempt to “paralyze” the legislature for an extended period, undermining constitutional order and democratic governance.
In a statement carried by Agence France-Presse (AFP), Yoon’s legal team strongly criticized the verdict.
“We believe we have a responsibility to clearly document the problems with this ruling — not only in the court’s record, but also before the verdict of history,” his lawyers said.
The case marks a significant moment in South Korea’s political and legal landscape, as the court determined that the use of emergency powers exceeded constitutional limits and constituted an unlawful effort to disrupt legislative authority.
Further legal proceedings, including potential appeals, are expected as the defense continues to challenge the ruling.
