South Korean prosecutors have requested a 15-year prison sentence for former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, accusing him of supporting former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s attempted imposition of martial law in late 2024.

According to details presented during the final hearing at the Seoul Central District Court, the special prosecutor’s team argued that Han failed to prevent the declaration of martial law, despite being the only senior official with the authority to do so at the time. Prosecutors claimed that his actions before and after the declaration amounted to “indirect support” for the attempt.

Han Duck-soo has denied the accusations, while the court is expected to announce its verdict on January 21 or January 28, 2026.

The case stems from the political crisis that erupted on 3 December 2024, when President Yoon declared martial law, alleging that the opposition was engaged in anti-state activities. The National Assembly swiftly overturned the declaration, forcing Yoon to retract the decision. Lawmakers later voted to impeach him, temporarily removing him from office. On 4 April 2025, the Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment, formally dismissing Yoon from the presidency.

Prosecutors argue that Han’s alleged inaction contributed to an unlawful attempt to consolidate power. The defense, however, maintains that the former prime minister acted within legal boundaries, stressing that the situation unfolded rapidly and without clear communication from the presidential office.

The case has become one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in South Korea, highlighting the lingering political tensions following Yoon’s removal and raising questions about institutional safeguards during constitutional crises.(ILKHA)