South Korea’s former prime minister Han sentenced to 23 years in jail | EUROtoday

As of: January 21, 2026 11:31 a.m

Former South Korean Prime Minister Han has been sentenced to 23 years in jail. According to the courtroom, he contributed to the state disaster that ex-President Yoon triggered in 2024 by declaring martial legislation.

Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck Soo has been sentenced to 23 years in jail for his position within the nationwide disaster that sparked in December 2024. The sentence is subsequently a lot larger than that demanded by the general public prosecutor, who had argued for 15 years in jail.

The central district courtroom in Seoul discovered it confirmed that Han supported then-President Yoon Suk Yeol in declaring martial legislation and thus participated in a insurrection. This is among the most critical allegations below South Korean legislation. Han can nonetheless attraction the decision.

Former President Yoon faces loss of life penalty

Then-President Yoon unexpectedly declared martial legislation on December 3, 2024 within the wake of a funds dispute. Yoon acknowledged that he needed to guard the free order on this manner and in addition accused the left-wing opposition of being infiltrated by communists with connections to China and North Korea. He didn’t present any proof to assist these allegations. Han testified on the trial that he had suggested Yoon in opposition to the step.

A trial can also be underway in opposition to Yoon. The public prosecutor’s workplace is demanding the loss of life penalty. The verdict is anticipated to come back in mid-February. Although the loss of life penalty continues to be imposed in South Korea, it has not been carried out in virtually 30 years.