A South Korean court has handed down a five-year prison sentence to former President Yoon Suk Yeol, following his conviction on charges related to the declaration of martial law in December 2024. The court found him guilty of obstructing authorities, fabricating official documents, and failing to comply with the legal process required to impose martial law. This ruling marks a significant moment in South Korea's history, as it is the first related to criminal charges stemming from the botched martial law attempt, which lasted only six hours but caused widespread shock and public protests. The court's decision comes as a result of Yoon's failure to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, as stated by Judge Baek Dae-hyun. The former president's supporters gathered outside the court, chanting in protest of the verdict. However, Yoon's legal team has expressed disappointment, arguing that the decision was made in a politicized manner. The case now moves forward with the possibility of an appeal, as Yoon faces the most serious charge of insurrection, which carries a death sentence, in an ongoing trial.
