South Korean Ex-Leader Faces 30-Year Term Amid Martial Law Allegations

South Korean prosecutors are seeking a 30-year prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol over accusations he orchestrated military tensions with North Korea in 2024 to justify declaring martial law at home.

Prosecutors claim Yoon benefited an adversary and abused his powers, charges stemming from drone flights over Pyongyang. In February, Yoon was sentenced to life in prison for a rebellion charge, which both he and the prosecution appealed.

Kim Yong Hyun, Yoon's former defense minister, faces potential imprisonment as well. Yoon's declaration of martial law plunged South Korea into political turmoil, easing only after his liberal rival, Lee Jae Myung, ascended to the presidency and initiated independent investigations into Yoon's actions.