On December 12, the Seoul Central District Court made a crucial ruling regarding Lee Sang-min's involvement in actions taken during the December 3 state of emergency, underscoring the implication that such actions constituted a rebellion against the state. The court emphasized that the orders given by former President Yoon Seok-yeol to cut off power and water supply to media outlets were part of a broader attempt to suppress dissent and control information, making these actions punishable under rebellion laws. The judge highlighted that executing the president's commands contributed to destabilizing the state, portraying these actions as a serious threat to national integrity.

The court articulated that the classification of Yoon Seok-yeol's declaration of emergency as a rebellious act set a precedent, wherein any actions supporting this declaration would also fall under rebellion statutes. It concluded that Lee's alleged transmission of orders to implement power and water cuts to specific media organizations linked him directly to Yoon’s rebellion plans. Although the physical documentation detailing these orders has yet to be retrieved, the court suggested sufficient circumstantial evidence exists that demonstrates Lee had received and acted on these directives.

In conclusion, the verdict places significant emphasis on accountability at both individual and leadership levels during times of crisis. By correlating Lee's actions with Yoon's controversial emergency policy, it not only reflects on the legal frameworks concerning rebellion in South Korea but also sends a legal and social signal regarding the importance of the media and institutions safeguarding democracy, while also highlighting the complex interplay between governance, legal responsibilities, and civil rights during emergencies.