A South Korean court on January 21, 2026, found former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo guilty of engaging in a key act of insurrection related to the country’s short-lived declaration of martial law in December 2024, according to Reuters.
The ruling stems from Han’s role during former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s attempt to impose martial law. Judges found that Han failed to convene a lawful cabinet meeting, a mandatory constitutional requirement under South Korean law before martial law can be declared.
The court ruled that this procedural failure constituted a critical action contributing to an unconstitutional use of emergency powers. South Korean law requires formal cabinet approval to legitimize martial law measures, even during national crises.
Han appeared at the Seoul Central District Court for his first sentencing hearing, where prosecutors argued that bypassing cabinet procedures undermined democratic safeguards and civilian oversight of the military.
The martial law declaration in December 2024 was quickly reversed after public backlash, political resistance, and legal scrutiny. The episode triggered widespread debate in South Korea over executive power, constitutional limits, and the role of civilian leadership during emergencies.
Legal analysts say the verdict reinforces the judiciary’s role in enforcing procedural accountability, even for senior officials, and sends a signal that emergency powers cannot bypass established legal frameworks.
Sentencing has not yet been finalized, and further appeals are expected.
