In a landmark ruling that underscores South Korea’s commitment to accountability, the Seoul Central District Court has sentenced former Home Minister Lee Sang-min to seven years in prison. The verdict, delivered on Thursday and broadcast live, holds Lee responsible for his pivotal role in ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024.
The court meticulously detailed Lee’s involvement in the controversial declaration, which sent shockwaves through the nation. Prosecutors, led by special counsel Cho Yoon-sook, had demanded a stiff 15-year sentence, accusing Lee of aiding Yoon in mobilizing police and fire agencies to cut power and water supplies to media outlets critical of the administration. These drastic measures were part of a broader scheme to suppress dissent during the martial law episode.
Lee’s arrest in August marked the beginning of a high-stakes legal battle. Additional charges included providing false testimony during Yoon’s impeachment trial. In his final courtroom statement, Lee vehemently denied receiving or issuing any orders to disrupt utilities. ‘Even if that day’s actions amounted to rebellion, it’s hard to believe that I, unaware of the circumstances, joined a conspiracy in mere minutes and played a key role,’ he asserted, his voice breaking as he thanked his defense team.
This conviction comes on the heels of another significant judgment. Just weeks earlier, on January 28, Yoon’s wife, former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, received a one-year-and-eight-month sentence for accepting lavish gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors. Critics argued her punishment was lenient, especially as she was acquitted on stock manipulation and political funds violations.
The rulings signal a turbulent chapter in South Korean politics, with the judiciary asserting its independence amid public outrage over the martial law fiasco. As investigations continue, questions linger about the full extent of complicity among top officials. Lee’s sentence serves as a stern warning against abusing power, potentially reshaping the nation’s democratic safeguards.