South Korean prosecutors have asked a court to sentence former president Yoon Suk Yeol to death if he is convicted over his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
The request was made during closing arguments at the Seoul Central District Court, where Yoon is standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection.
Prosecutors described him as the “ringleader” of an unconstitutional move that briefly plunged the country into political turmoil.
Yoon’s declaration of martial law lasted only a few hours but led to his impeachment by parliament and subsequent arrest.
He has denied all charges, insisting the move was symbolic and intended to draw attention to alleged wrongdoing by the opposition.
Under South Korean law, the crime of leading an insurrection carries either the death penalty or life imprisonment, requiring prosecutors to seek one of the two sentences.
Although South Korea has not carried out executions in nearly three decades, the law remains in force.
In court, prosecutors argued that Yoon’s actions were driven by a desire for unchecked power and long-term rule.
They said the absence of fatalities did not lessen the gravity of his intent, describing the attempt as a direct assault on democracy and constitutional order.
They presented testimony from a senior military commander who claimed Yoon ordered the arrest of lawmakers during the episode, as well as a memo from a former military officer involved in planning the martial law.
The document allegedly suggested the “disposal” of hundreds of people, including journalists, labour activists and politicians.
Yoon’s trial has been consolidated with those of other senior officials from his administration, including former defence minister Kim Yong-hyun and former police chief Cho Ji-ho.
Prosecutors are seeking life imprisonment for Kim and a 20-year jail term for Cho, alongside charges against five other defendants.
Addressing the court, Yoon maintained that he acted within his constitutional powers as president and said the declaration was meant to protect the nation from what he described as forces seeking to undermine it.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict in February. Legal observers note that sentences requested by prosecutors are not always upheld.
Yoon, 65, was removed from office in April and became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested and charged.
His brief martial law declaration shocked the nation and triggered months of political instability, culminating in a snap election that brought current president Lee Jae Myung to power.
Despite his removal, Yoon continues to enjoy support among some right-wing groups who view him as a victim of political persecution.
