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South Korea: Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Former President Yoon Suk-yeol

Published January 13, 2026, 14:19
South Korea: Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Former President Yoon Suk-yeol

South Korean prosecutors have requested the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk-yeol, accusing him of rebellion for attempting to impose martial law in December 2024. According to Yonhap news agency, the prosecutors labeled him the “leader of the rebellion.” Mr. Yoon unexpectedly declared martial law, claiming his goal was to eliminate “anti-state forces” with ties to North Korea. This move sparked strong opposition from lawmakers and led to the suspension of his presidential duties, his arrest, and criminal charges. Although South Korea has not executed a death row inmate for decades, its law stipulates the death penalty for rebellion. Prosecutors argue that a plan existed, devised by Yoon and former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun in October 2023, to maintain Yoon in power. However, Yoon, 65, denies the charges, asserting that he had the right as president to declare martial law and that his action aimed to prevent interference in the government by opposition parties. The court’s decision is expected in February.