Tue Jan 13 20:09:34 UTC 2026: ### Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Potential Death Penalty for Failed Martial Law Attempt
The Story:
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, impeached and removed from office following a failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024, now faces a potential death penalty. Prosecutors have requested the Seoul Central District Court to sentence Yoon to death, accusing him of undermining the “liberal democratic constitutional order” through a “self-coup.” The prosecution argues that Yoon’s actions plunged South Korea into crisis, prompting widespread protests and leading to his impeachment.
Key Points:
- Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
- Yoon is accused of threatening the “liberal democratic constitutional order” with his attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
- The Supreme Court declared Yoon’s martial law decree unconstitutional, leading to his impeachment and removal from office.
- Yoon denies the charges, claiming he acted within his authority to address opposition obstruction.
- The court is expected to deliver a verdict on February 19.
- Yoon faces multiple other trials related to the martial law attempt and other scandals, including an obstruction of justice case and charges of aiding the enemy.
- South Korea has observed an unofficial moratorium on executions since 1997.
Key Takeaways:
- The push for the death penalty against Yoon highlights the severity with which the South Korean legal system views his actions.
- The case underscores the fragility of democratic institutions and the potential for abuse of power, even in established democracies.
- Even if a death sentence is handed down, it’s unlikely to be carried out due to South Korea’s moratorium on executions, but the symbolic weight remains significant.
- The current President Lee Jae Myung’s administration signaled that they believe the judiciary will make a decision based on the law.
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