News|Death PenaltySouth Korea prosecutors seek death penalty for ex-President YoonProsecutors say Yoon, who was impeached over a failed 2024 martial law declaration, threatened ‘constitutional order’.

Regulation: South Korean Legal Proceedings

South Korean prosecutors have requested the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol due to his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024. This request was submitted to the Seoul Central District Court, citing Yoon's actions as a threat to the "liberal democratic constitutional order."

The prosecutors argued that no mitigating circumstances exist and emphasized the need for severe punishment. Yoon's martial law declaration in December 2024 led to widespread protests and legislative action, eventually being declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Following this, Yoon was impeached, removed from office, and incarcerated.

The trial, which concluded after 11 hours of proceedings, addressed charges of insurrection and abuse of power related to the martial law declaration. The court is anticipated to issue a verdict on Mon, Feb 19, 2025.

Yoon has denied the charges, claiming his actions were within his presidential authority and aimed at countering obstruction by opposition parties. He criticized the investigations as being biased and manipulated.

If convicted, Yoon could become the third South Korean president found guilty of insurrection. Despite the potential for a death sentence, South Korea has not executed anyone since 1997 due to an unofficial moratorium on capital punishment.

Yoon is also involved in other legal proceedings, including an obstruction of justice case with a verdict expected on Fri, Feb 23, 2025. Additionally, he faces charges of aiding the enemy, related to alleged drone operations over North Korea.

The current administration, led by President Lee Jae Myung, expressed confidence that the judiciary will act according to legal and public standards.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.