South Korean ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life in prison for imposing martial law in December 2024. The imposition of martial law, which lasted about six hours, was aimed at suppressing the opposition. The Seoul Central Court found Yoon guilty of illegally attempting to take control of the liberal-led National Assembly by mobilizing the army and police, arresting politicians, and establishing unlimited power for an extended period. The prosecution had sought the death penalty for the former president, arguing that his actions posed a threat to the country's democracy. Yoon, in turn, defended his December 2024 decree on martial law as a necessary action against liberals, whom he described as 'anti-state forces' hindering his agenda due to their parliamentary majority. The 65-year-old conservative, hardline president was later impeached, arrested, and faced several charges, including rebellion and obstructing the course of justice.
