A South Korean court sentenced former Justice Minister Park Sung-jae to 25 years in prison on Monday for his involvement in the controversial martial law declaration issued by then-President Yoon Suk Yeol in December 2024. The Seoul Central District Court found Park guilty of participating in an insurrection linked to Yoon’s brief and turbulent imposition of martial law, which lasted approximately six hours before legislators convened an emergency session to reject the measure.
Prosecutors detailed that Park convened a meeting with justice ministry officials shortly after the declaration, during which he assessed prison capacities in anticipation of detaining individuals opposing the government. The court emphasized that Park disregarded warnings about the illegality of the December 3 actions, thereby contributing to a situation that threatened fundamental rights and the democratic order.
Presiding Judge Lee Jin-gwan highlighted the gravity of Park’s conduct, stating it nearly led to violations of citizens’ rights and undermined South Korea’s liberal democratic framework. Prosecutors had initially sought a 20-year term, accusing Park of abusing his position by turning legal instruments into tools for an insurrection. Previously, Park had been undergoing the trial while out on bail but was taken into custody following the verdict.
The martial law declaration by President Yoon plunged the nation into an unprecedented political crisis. Delivered during a late-night national broadcast, the announcement shocked the public, triggered widespread protests, unsettled financial markets, and caught international allies off guard. Yoon himself has been convicted of leading an insurrection and is currently detained as he appeals a life sentence. Earlier this month, Yoon received a 30-year prison term for allegedly orchestrating a national crisis by sending drones into North Korea to justify his martial law move.
Several former high-ranking officials allied with Yoon have also been sentenced in connection to the crisis. Ex-Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was handed a 15-year sentence, while former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min received a nine-year term, reflecting the broad legal repercussions stemming from the failed insurrection attempt.
The judicial rulings mark a significant chapter in South Korea’s recent political history, underscoring the judiciary’s effort to hold senior officials accountable for actions threatening the country’s democratic institutions. The sentences have elicited a range of responses domestically and internationally, with ongoing debates about the constitutional and political ramifications of the December 2024 events.