Former South Korean President Yoon Suk‑yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty on multiple charges of corruption, bribery, and abuse of power.
The verdict was handed down by a South Korean court following months of high-profile legal proceedings and mounting public scrutiny over allegations that Yoon and several of his associates accepted lavish payments and favours in exchange for political influence and government contracts.
In a detailed ruling, the court concluded that Yoon played a central role in orchestrating schemes that undermined public trust and violated ethical standards expected of the nation’s top leader.
Prosecutors argued that the former president used his position to benefit wealthy business figures and insiders, linking his actions to a broader pattern of misconduct that triggered widespread controversy across South Korea.
Supporters of Yoon had maintained his innocence throughout the trial, calling the proceedings politically motivated and arguing that the evidence was circumstantial or misinterpreted.
Despite this, the judiciary upheld its findings, asserting that the weight of corroborated testimony and documented transactions justified the life sentence.
The ruling has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics, drawing reactions from political parties, civil society groups, and international observers. Some critics of the verdict say it signals a strengthening of accountability and rule of law in the country, while others warn of deepening political divisions.
Meanwhile, legal experts expect prolonged appeals and further court battles as Yoon’s legal team prepares to challenge the conviction in higher courts.
