South Korea's impeached president found guilty in first of four trials: What you need to know

BBC News - WorldEN 4 min read 100% complete January 16, 2026 at 07:03 AM

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long article 4 min

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was found guilty of abuse of power, falsifying documents, and obstructing justice related to his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024. The verdict, delivered more than a year after the incident, also sentenced him to five years in jail. Yoon faces three additional trials on charges including insurrection and violating campaign law. Prosecutors accused him of misusing state institutions and undermining constitutional checks and balances. The obstruction of justice charge stemmed from his efforts to evade arrest, which involved mobilizing security officers to block authorities. Yoon's attempt to declare martial law, despite lacking a national emergency, led to the insurrection charge.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies 30% Mason Richey 30% Leehyun Choi 30% Kelly Ng 30% National Assembly 40% Corruption Investigation Office 40% South Korea ×480% Yoon Suk Yeol ×990%

Keywords

yoon suk yeol 100% martial law 90% south korea 90% obstruction of justice 80% abuse of power 80% insurrection 70% impeachment 70% political turmoil 60% falsifying documents 60% constitutional checks and balances 50%

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BBC News - World

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yoon suk yeol martial law south korea obstruction of justice abuse of power insurrection impeachment political turmoil falsifying documents constitutional checks and balances

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