British News Agency

This ruling marked the first verdict in cases stemming from the failed declaration of martial law in 2024.

Special prosecutor Cho Eun-suk had sought a total sentence of 10 years in prison for Yoon: five years for resisting arrest, two years for subsequently altering the martial law decision, and three years for violating cabinet members’ rights to deliberation, spreading false information to foreign media, and destroying evidence.

Following Yoon’s declaration of martial law in 2024, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials attempted to arrest him in January 2025. Yoon then mobilized the Presidential Security Service and police forces to surround his residence.

Yoon claimed that the Corruption Investigation Office lacked the authority to investigate charges of insurrection. However, the court ruled that the Intelligence Office (CIO) acted under a valid warrant for search and arrest.

The Friday ruling is expected to set a precedent regarding the legality of the initial investigation into Yoon’s alleged insurrection.

In addition to Friday’s sentence, Yoon will face seven more separate cases, and the next sentencing hearing related to the insurrection charge is scheduled for February 19.