Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Over Martial Law Declaration

An independent counsel in South Korea has requested the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing his 2024 martial law declaration as an act of insurrection. Yoon, who was removed from office in April 2025, faces multiple criminal trials related to his attempt to impose martial law and other allegations from his tenure. The Seoul Central District Court is expected to deliver a verdict in February. Legal experts suggest a life sentence is more probable, given South Korea's moratorium on executions since 1997. Yoon maintains that his martial law decree was a peaceful effort to address what he perceived as threats from the opposition Democratic Party. His actions led to his impeachment and removal from office, plunging the nation into political turmoil and economic instability. His successor, President Lee Jae Myung, initiated investigations into Yoon and his associates upon taking office.