Former Justice Minister Sentenced To 25 Years In Martial Law Case

Monday 22 June 2026 - 09:15

A Seoul court has sentenced former Justice Minister Park Sung-jae to 25 years in prison over his involvement in an alleged attempt to impose martial law during the administration of former President Yoon Seok-youl, in a case that has drawn significant political attention in South Korea.

The court found Park guilty of charges including insurrection and abuse of power, concluding that he played a key role in actions taken following the declaration of martial law, which prosecutors argue exceeded constitutional limits.

According to court findings, Park convened a meeting of senior Justice Ministry officials shortly after the martial law declaration. During this meeting, discussions reportedly included the possible deployment of prosecutors to support institutions involved in enforcing emergency measures, as well as assessments of the capacity of correctional facilities to handle potential detainees.

He was also accused of ordering or requesting coordination related to travel bans and other administrative restrictions, raising concerns about the expansion of executive authority during a politically sensitive period.

The ruling goes significantly beyond the five-year prison term recommended by the special counsel team led by prosecutor Jo Eun-suk, reflecting the court’s assessment of the severity of the offenses and their implications for constitutional order.

The case is part of a broader investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt to expand emergency powers under martial law, including scrutiny of senior officials close to the former president.

Legal analysts say the verdict underscores South Korea’s strict judicial stance on any actions perceived as undermining democratic institutions or constitutional procedures. The case is expected to continue shaping political debate in the country in the months ahead.