South Korean Court Sentences Ex-PM Han to 23 Years for Martial Law Aid

SEOUL, South Korea – A South Korean court sentenced former Prime Minister Han Ducksoo to 23 years in prison on Wednesday for his role in aiding ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived declaration of martial law in December 2024, marking the first judicial ruling on the failed power grab that triggered national upheaval.

The Seoul Central District Court convicted the 76-year-old Han of abetting insurrection, finding that he disregarded his constitutional duties as the country's second-highest official. Presiding Judge Lee Jingwan stated that Han played a significant role by convening a cabinet meeting to provide procedural cover for the decree, despite voicing private concerns to Yoon. "The defendant disregarded his duty and responsibility as prime minister until the very end," Judge Lee said during the televised hearing. The sentence exceeded the 15-year term sought by prosecutors and required Han to report to prison immediately.

The court ruled that Yoon's martial law imposition on December 3, 2024, aimed to subvert the constitutional order and constituted an act of insurrection under the Criminal Act. Yoon, facing legislative gridlock, deployed armed troops to the National...