South Korean Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Former President Yoon Suk Yeol Over Rebellion Charges

An independent special prosecutor in South Korea has formally requested the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing allegations of rebellion during his tenure. The request was presented at the Seoul Central District Court, where prosecutors outlined their case against the ex-leader, focusing on his actions in December 2024 when he imposed martial law in response to political tensions.

The case centers around Yoon's decision to declare martial law and deploy military forces to surround the National Assembly. This move followed his public assertion that the legislature was compromised by criminal elements and individuals perceived as threats to the state. Despite the military presence, enough lawmakers were able to convene and vote against Yoon's decree, leading to the rapid reversal of martial law within hours. Subsequently, impeachment proceedings were initiated, and Yoon was removed from office by the Constitutional Court in April 2025.

During the court hearing, the special prosecutor's team argued that Yoon's actions represented a serious breach of the country's constitutional order. Prosecutors stated that the imposition of martial law undermined the authority of the National Assembly and the electoral commission, thereby violating democratic principles enshrined in South Korea's constitution. The prosecution emphasized that Yoon had not offered a formal apology to the public or demonstrated genuine remorse for his conduct while in office.

The call for the death penalty is significant, given South Korea's longstanding moratorium on executions. While death sentences have occasionally been handed down in recent years, the country has not carried out an execution in nearly three decades. The legal team's demand highlights the gravity with which authorities view the charges against the former president.

Yoon faces multiple charges, with rebellion considered the most severe. Prosecutors contend that his actions amounted to an attempt to subvert the democratic process and disrupt governmental functions. Other allegations include abuse of power and violations of public trust. Yoon has consistently rejected all accusations, maintaining that his decision to declare martial law fell within his constitutional authority as president. He also argued that the measure was intended to address perceived disruption and obstruction by opposition parties.

The events of December 2024 have revived memories in South Korea of earlier periods marked by authoritarian rule. In the 1970s and 1980s, military-backed leaders frequently invoked emergency laws to suppress pro-democracy movements. The recent actions by Yoon prompted widespread public debate and concern over the protection of democratic institutions in the country.

Since Yoon's removal from office, South Korea has been led by President Lee Jae Myung, a centrist politician who was previously one of Yoon's main political adversaries. The case against Yoon continues to attract significant domestic and international attention, as it may set important legal and political precedents regarding presidential accountability in South Korea.

A verdict in the case is expected in the coming weeks. The proceedings are closely monitored due to their potential implications for South Korea's political landscape and the broader safeguarding of democratic governance.