In a stunning verdict that has rocked South Korea’s political landscape, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was sentenced to 23 years in prison on Wednesday by the Seoul Central District Court. The court branded the short-lived martial law declaration by ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol as an act of rebellion, with Han playing a pivotal role in its execution.
This harsh punishment comes just after Yoon himself received a five-year term in the same case. Prosecutors had sought 15 years for Han, accusing him of aiding rebellion, playing a key part in the plot, and giving false testimony. The court, however, escalated the sentence, citing Han’s failure to uphold his constitutional duties as prime minister.
The drama unfolded around December 3, 2024, when Yoon abruptly imposed martial law, only for the National Assembly to vote it down six hours later. Han, as the cabinet’s leader, suggested calling a meeting before the decree and failed to oppose it during proceedings. He even appeared to egg on the then-home minister to enforce Yoon’s orders, including cutting power and water to critical media outlets critical of the administration.
Judge Lee Jin-kwan, presiding over the televised hearing, ordered Han into custody immediately, warning of potential evidence tampering. ‘As prime minister, the defendant was duty-bound to protect the constitution and laws,’ the judge declared. ‘He believed the rebellion could succeed and chose to participate until the end.’
Han was also found guilty of signing a revised proclamation post-revocation to legitimize the decree, rejecting it publicly, and lying under oath at the constitutional court. The first cabinet member convicted in this saga, Han denies all charges, claiming ignorance of the full martial law plan.
The ruling could sway Yoon’s ongoing trial, where prosecutors demand the death penalty. His verdict is set for February 19. This case underscores South Korea’s firm stance against threats to democracy, with the judiciary sending a clear message to power holders.