SEOUL, Feb 19, (V7N) — A South Korean court is set to deliver a historic verdict on Thursday regarding insurrection charges against former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who could face the death penalty for his failed attempt to impose military rule.

Yoon, 65, a hardline conservative, declared martial law in a televised address in December 2024, citing the need to eliminate "anti-state forces." His sudden move led to his impeachment, arrest, and multiple charges, including insurrection and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors have called for the death penalty on the insurrection charges, seeking the harshest punishment during hearings in January.

The death sentence in South Korea is rare, as the country has had an unofficial moratorium on capital punishment since 1997. If convicted, Yoon would likely face life imprisonment.

Yoon’s failed bid to establish military rule harkens back to South Korea's turbulent history of military coups between the 1960s and 1980s, raising concerns about a return to authoritarianism. His actions have sparked widespread protests, economic uncertainty, and dismay among key international allies like the United States.

Millions of South Koreans are expected to watch the live broadcast of the verdict at 3 pm local time (0600 GMT), which is anticipated to capture the nation’s attention.

Yoon has consistently denied the charges, arguing that his actions were necessary to "safeguard freedom" and restore constitutional order in the face of an "opposition-led legislative dictatorship."

Legal experts suggest that while a life sentence is likely, the court could impose a lighter sentence in rare cases of "discretionary mitigation." However, with Yoon maintaining his innocence and not expressing remorse, it is considered unlikely that a judge will issue anything lighter than life imprisonment.

In addition to the charges related to his failed martial law declaration, Yoon has already been sentenced to five years in prison for other lesser crimes. His wife, Kim Keon Hee, was sentenced earlier this year to 20 months in prison for bribery while serving as first lady.

The court's ruling will be a crucial moment for South Korea, testing its democratic resilience and the limits of legal accountability for a former leader.

END/WD/RH/