Special Counsel Demands Capital Punishment The special counsel team led by Cho Eun‑suk asked the Seoul Central District Court to impose the death penalty on former President Yoon Suk Yeol during the final hearing. They described Yoon as the ringleader of an insurrection that sought to commandeer the judiciary and legislature. The request was presented while Yoon attended the courtroom in person[1][2].

Court Schedules Verdict for Mid‑February The court announced it will issue its ruling on 19 February, concluding the trial over Yoon’s martial‑law declaration. This decision follows the final hearing and will close a year‑long legal process that began with his indictment last year[1].

Yoon Defends Emergency Powers as Constitutional In a 90‑minute statement, Yoon argued that exercising the constitutional state‑emergency authority cannot be classified as insurrection. He framed his decree as a protective measure for national freedom and sovereignty, insisting it was a legitimate presidential act[1].

Indictment Details Include Assembly Seizure and Detentions Prosecutors allege Yoon ordered troops and police to seal the National Assembly compound, blocking lawmakers from voting on his decree. He is accused of ordering the arrest of the Assembly speaker and opposition party leaders, actions prosecutors label an unlawful seizure of legislative power[1].

Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Prison Terms for Co‑Defendants The special counsel also requested severe sentences for four accomplices: life imprisonment for the former defense minister, 20 years for the ex‑national police chief, 15 years for a former Seoul police chief, and 30 years for a retired army major general. These demands highlight the breadth of the alleged conspiracy to enforce martial law[1].