In December 2024, former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol faces a death penalty charge for allegedly orchestrating internal turmoil, with a ruling expected from Seoul Central District Court. Despite the legal framework that includes the death penalty for such offenses, actual executions have not occurred in South Korea for over 25 years, largely due to shifts in human rights perspectives under various administrations, particularly since the late 1990s. Experts indicate that the abolition of capital punishment has been influenced by historical factors, including the past experiences of political leaders like Kim Dae-jung, who was once sentenced to death during an oppressive regime but later advocated for human rights improvements.

Additionally, there is a notable divide between South Korea's progressive and conservative political factions regarding the death penalty. While progressives emphasize human rights, conservatives may appeal to public fears and support for harsher penalties during periods of heightened crime. Public opinion remains largely favorable towards the death penalty, especially during times of high-profile violent crime, prompting calls for a return to severe punitive measures. Under the Yoon administration, recent actions have hinted at a renewed focus on capital punishment, showcasing the ongoing debate over its role in South Korean society and governance.