On the 19th, Jeong Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, expressed strong criticism regarding the Seoul court's life imprisonment sentence handed to former President Yoon Seok-yeol, who was charged with insurrection leadership. Jeong stated that the ruling is "very insufficient" and contradicts the public's legal sentiment, particularly because the law allows for a maximum penalty of death and a minimum of life imprisonment for such charges. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, suggesting that the court's decision undermined justice and the principles of democracy in South Korea.

During an emergency Supreme Council meeting, Jeong elaborated on his criticisms, stating that the ruling by Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae represents a significant regression against the people’s revolutionary spirit, particularly those who protested against Yoon’s presidency. He highlighted the actions of citizens who rallied against Yoon's administration as evidence of a collective hope for justice that was not met by the court's decision. The remarks reflect a broader discontent with the judicial outcomes related to political figures in South Korea and call for accountability within the justice system.

Furthermore, Jeong vowed that regardless of the court's decision, the Democratic Party would remain committed to upholding judicial justice, democracy, and the constitutional values of South Korea. He promised to pursue further investigations, including a second special investigation into the proceedings involving Yoon, aiming to ensure that appropriate justice is served for what he described as Yoon's insurrection leadership. Jeong’s statements resonate with ongoing political tensions in South Korea, as the debate over judicial accountability and political integrity continues to remain a focal point of public discourse.