Prosecutors seek death penalty for ex-South Korean president Yoon

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 13, 2026 at 02:09 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Prosecutors in South Korea are seeking the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is accused of leading an insurrection by attempting to impose martial law in December 2024. The prosecution argues that Yoon's actions, though brief, plunged the country into political turmoil and his intent was violent. Yoon, who was later impeached, denies the charges, claiming the martial law was a symbolic gesture. The trial, which includes former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun and former police chief Cho Ji-ho, has heard closing arguments, including testimony from a military commander and evidence of a memo suggesting the "disposing" of hundreds of people. A verdict and sentencing are expected in February. Yoon also faces a separate trial where prosecutors are seeking a 10-year prison term for obstruction of justice related to the same event.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

North Korea 40% Chun Doo-hwan 50% Kim Yong-hyun 60% Cho Ji-ho 60% Seoul 70% South Korea ×590% Yoon Suk Yeol ×1095%

Keywords

martial law 100% yoon suk yeol 90% death penalty 80% south korea 70% insurrection 70% trial 60% political turmoil 50% impeachment 50% military rule 40%