South Korea sentences former leader Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison
Financial Times • • world
Key Points:
- South Korea's former president Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to five years in prison for blocking arrest attempts, abuse of power, and falsifying documents related to his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
- The court found Yoon used security officials to obstruct investigations and manipulate public officials, though he was acquitted of ordering officials to distribute false claims to international media.
- Yoon's emergency declaration of martial law, aimed at countering alleged "pro-North anti-state forces," sparked widespread protests and was rejected by parliament, leading to his impeachment and removal from office.
- Prosecutors have requested the death penalty for Yoon on charges of insurrection, with a ruling expected on February 19,
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