A South Korean court has sentenced former president Yoon Suk Yeol to life in prison for leading an insurrection through his 2024 martial law declaration.

Yoon, 65, abruptly declared martial law in a televised address in December 2024, claiming drastic measures were needed to combat alleged “anti-state forces” blocking his government. Troops were sent to the National Assembly, triggering a political crisis that shook the nation.

Presiding judge Ji Gwi-yeon ruled that Yoon sought to paralyze the legislature and silence political opponents, causing “enormous social costs.” “The court finds no indication of remorse,” Ji said. “We sentence Yoon to life imprisonment.”

Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun was sentenced to 30 years, while prosecutors had sought the death penalty, citing the seriousness of the insurrection. South Korea’s unofficial moratorium on capital punishment means Yoon will serve life behind bars.

Thousands of supporters gathered outside the Seoul Central District Court, waving placards reading “Yoon Great Again” and protesting the verdict. Police maintained a heavy presence to prevent unrest.

The 2024 martial law attempt revived memories of military coups that destabilized South Korea between 1960 and 1980. Martial law lasted only six hours after lawmakers raced to the assembly and barricaded doors against armed troops. The crisis sparked street protests, stock market panic, and concern among international allies, including the United States.

Yoon has consistently denied wrongdoing, claiming he acted to “safeguard freedom” against a so-called “legislative dictatorship.” Under South Korean law, insurrection carries only life imprisonment or death, and Yoon faces additional sentences for lesser charges.

His wife, Kim Keon Hee, was previously sentenced to 20 months in prison for unrelated bribery charges, adding to the political fallout from the 2024 crisis.