Yoon Seok-yeol, the former President of South Korea, received a life sentence from the Seoul Central District Court on December 19, 2024, for his role in declaring martial law and orchestrating what was deemed an insurrection. The court's decision categorized his actions, which included mobilizing the military and police to shut down the National Assembly, as a serious violation of the South Korean legal framework, specifically under the definition of 'rebellion' in the criminal code. The court determined that Yoon's actions posed a significant threat to constitutional order and authority, warranting a severe penalty.

Under South Korean law, rebellion is defined as an act of uprising aimed at undermining state power and disrupting the constitution's functionality, with severe repercussions for those found guilty, including possibilities of life imprisonment or the death penalty. Although South Korea has not executed any death penalties since 1997, the legal framework does still stipulate such punishments for heinous crimes. The court's ruling reflects a growing intolerance towards any actions that can destabilize the democratic framework in South Korea, and this case could set significant legal precedents for future governance and political accountability.

Yoon Seok-yeol's defense argued that the martial law declaration was necessary under the circumstances and that he acted with a legitimate view of national security. However, the court dismissed these claims, marking a pivotal moment in South Korea’s political climate, where former leaders are being held accountable for constitutional violations. This verdict not only raises questions about the balance of power but also highlights ongoing political tensions in South Korea amidst its historical struggles with military intervention and civil governance.