Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo Sentenced to 23 Years in Prison

Seoul, January 21 – Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was sentenced to 23 years in prison on Wednesday for aiding and abetting the “insurrection” of impeached former President Yoon Suk-yeol. The Seoul Central District Court found him guilty of aiding insurrection, infringing upon constitutional rights, and abusing power.

While announcing the verdict, the court stated, “This attempt by a high-ranking official to achieve political objectives by trampling upon the constitution and the will of the people has shaken the very foundations of democracy.” In sentencing Han, the court strongly remarked that he had “abandoned constitutional values to protect power.”

This verdict comes against the backdrop of the major political turmoil against the Yoon Suk-yeol government in 2022. At that time, the opposition party had impeached Yoon in parliament, a move supported by strong street protests and public movements. Han was accused of obstructing the impeachment process in his capacity as Prime Minister and bringing the military under political pressure.

This verdict is viewed as a significant turning point in South Korea’s democratic history. The court’s conviction of a high-level politician for “insurrection” sends a strong signal about the independence of the country’s judicial system and its allegiance to the constitution. Furthermore, it delivers a clear message that even those in power are not above the rule of law.