Seoul, Feb 19 (V7N)— Former South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol has been found guilty of sedition in connection with the imposition of martial law in December 2024, marking a historic and politically consequential verdict in South Korea.

The Seoul Central District Court delivered the ruling on Thursday, concluding that Yoon played a leading role in what the court described as an “uprising” on December 3, 2024. According to prosecutors, the former president’s actions undermined constitutional governance, and they had sought the death penalty during proceedings.

Yoon was previously impeached and removed from office after the martial law declaration triggered a severe political crisis.

Troop Deployment to Parliament at Center of Case

South Korea’s state news agency Yonhap News Agency reported that a key issue in the trial was Yoon’s decision to deploy troops to the National Assembly of South Korea. The court ruled that the move was intended to render parliamentary proceedings ineffective for an extended period, thereby disrupting the legislature’s normal functioning.

Yoon Maintains Innocence

Yoon, 65, has denied wrongdoing throughout the trial. In court, he argued that the constitution granted him authority to impose martial law and said opposition parties had been obstructing government operations, prompting his decision.

Political Shockwaves

The conviction has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics, with analysts describing it as one of the most significant legal judgments involving a former head of state in the country’s modern history. Observers say the ruling underscores the strength of judicial oversight while also deepening political divisions following the turbulent events of 2024.

END/SMA/AJ