South Korean prosecutors seek 10-year prison sentence for former president Yoon

South Korea’s special prosecution team has asked a court to sentence former President Yoon Suk Yeol to 10 years in prison, accusing him of obstructing law enforcement efforts following his failed attempt to impose martial law.

According to Yonhap News Agency, prosecutors told the court on Friday that Yoon deliberately resisted arrest in January by fortifying the presidential residence and directing security personnel to block investigators from executing a lawful warrant.

The sentencing request marks the first time special prosecutors have formally sought a custodial sentence against the former leader, who is facing multiple charges related to the controversial declaration that ultimately led to his removal from office.

Prosecutors argued that Yoon’s actions undermined the rule of law and posed a serious threat to democratic governance in the country.

DAILY POST reports that Yoon was impeached and ousted earlier this year amid intense political backlash and nationwide protests triggered by the aborted martial law move.

The former president has denied any criminal intent, maintaining that his decisions were made within the bounds of the law and in response to what he described as extraordinary circumstances.

The court is expected to continue hearing submissions from both the prosecution and defence before delivering its verdict at a later date.