SEOUL — In a dramatic courtroom development, South Korea’s special prosecution team has formally demanded a decade-long prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The sentencing request marks the conclusion of the first among seven criminal cases against the ousted leader, centering on his controversial attempt to impose martial law in 2024 and subsequent allegations during his presidency.
Prosecutor Cho Eun-suk’s team presented their final arguments before the Seoul Central District Court on Friday, charging Yoon with multiple offenses including obstruction of official duties, abuse of power, document falsification, and evidence destruction. The case specifically addresses Yoon’s resistance against investigative authorities attempting to execute a detention warrant following his impeachment.
Senior investigator Park Eok-su characterized Yoon’s actions as “an unprecedented obstruction of official duties” during the court proceedings. The prosecution alleges that Yoon barricaded himself at his residence for weeks, creating a tense standoff that raised concerns about potential armed conflict between presidential security forces and law enforcement.
The failed martial law declaration in 2024 represents one of South Korea’s most severe political crises in decades. Yoon’s decree deployed armed troops onto Seoul streets, though the measure was overturned within hours when lawmakers convened an emergency session to nullify the order. The incident ultimately led to Yoon’s impeachment by the opposition-controlled parliament in December 2024 and his formal dismissal by the Constitutional Court in April.
Beyond the current trial, Yoon faces six additional criminal proceedings including charges of rebellion—a capital offense carrying potential life imprisonment or death penalty. Prosecutors allege the former president orchestrated martial law for over a year to eliminate political opponents and consolidate power. Other accusations include ordering unauthorized drone flights over North Korea to justify military escalation, manipulating investigations into a marine’s drowning, and receiving illegal campaign assistance.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict as early as next month, setting a precedent for subsequent trials against the former president.