Seoul Court Issues Life Imprisonment for Yoon’s Insurrection The Seoul Central District Court handed former President Yoon Suk‑Yeol a life‑term on Feb. 20, 2026 after finding him guilty of leading an insurrection through his Dec. 3, 2024 martial‑law decree[1]. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty, but the judges imposed life imprisonment, citing the failed nature of the coup as a mitigating circumstance[2]. The verdict marks the first conviction of a South Korean head of state for insurrection under the nation’s criminal code[2]. The court’s decision formally classifies the December 2024 attempt to suspend democratic institutions as an act of insurrection[2].

Yoon Issues Formal Apology Following Sentencing On the same day, Yoon released a statement apologizing to the Korean people for the “despair and suffering” caused by his actions[1]. He simultaneously defended the rationale behind the martial‑law decree, arguing it was intended to protect national security[1]. The apology was broadcast nationwide, intensifying public debate over accountability for the unprecedented conviction[1].

National Assembly Speaker Calls for Additional Repentance National Assembly Speaker Woo Won‑shik publicly urged Yoon to repent and issue a deeper apology on Feb. 19, 2026, a day before the court’s ruling[2]. Woo emphasized that the judgment confirms the December 2024 martial‑law bid constituted insurrection under Korean law[2]. He criticized the court’s mitigation, arguing the coup failed because of resistance from legislators and citizens, not inadequate planning[2]. Woo’s call reflects broader political pressure on the former president to accept full responsibility[2].