02/20/2026, 07:5202/20/2026, 07:52
South Korea’s former president Yoon Suk Yeol apologized to the public a day after he was sentenced to life in prison. The 65-year-old said in a statement through his lawyers that he was sorry for having caused “frustration and adversity” to the people through his martial law decree. At the same time, he reiterated the view that his actions “served exclusively for the good of the nation.”
Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to life in prison on February 19th.Image: keystone
He also portrayed himself as a political victim and described the charges against him as a “delusion.” Yoon told his followers: “Our fight is not over yet.”
On December 3, 2024, Yoon unexpectedly declared martial law and tried to seal off the National Assembly with the help of soldiers. On Thursday, the conservative politician was found guilty of leading an insurrection and sentenced to life in prison. The court found it proven that Yoon wanted to undermine the country’s democratic constitution by imposing martial law.
It is still unclear whether Yoon will appeal the verdict. (sda/dpa)