Korean anger as ex-president Yoon spared death in insurrection ruling
Former president Yoon Suk Yeol was convicted of leading an insurrection and sentenced to life with labour for his failed December 2024 martial-law bid. While hundreds cheered outside the court, many South Koreans view the verdict as dangerously lenient, pointing to a history of elite impunity and arguing the punishment should reflect the gravity of the crime. The judge cited mitigating factors; critics counter that long public service should not excuse state power abuses. The decision has spurred debate over possible pardons and parliamentary bills to bar insurrection pardons. Yoon issued a statement of apology for inadequacies, defended his actions as saving the nation, and urged supporters to unite as appeals remain possible.