South Korea's Former PM Sentenced: A Key Player in Martial Law Controversy

Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was sentenced to 23 years in jail for involvement in declaring martial law in December 2024. Charged with facilitating a 'top-down insurrection', Han's actions risked violating democratic rights. The ruling, which can be appealed, could reach the Supreme Court.

In a landmark decision, a South Korean court on Wednesday handed down a 23-year sentence to former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo for his role in a 2024 insurrection linked to martial law declarations.

The Seoul Central District Court highlighted Han's central involvement in orchestrating a pseudo-cabinet meeting crucial to the martial law announcement, terming it a 'top-down insurrection.'

Having denied most charges, Han now faces the prospect of appeals that may be elevated to the Supreme Court.

(With inputs from agencies.)