In a dramatic legal development, South Korea's independent special counsel has formally requested a severe prison sentence for the country's impeached former president. The case centers on allegations that he actively obstructed justice during an attempt to arrest him earlier this year.
Prosecution Demands Decade-Long Sentence
On Friday, December 26, 2025, special counsel Cho Eun-suk asked the court to impose a 10-year prison term on former President Yoon Suk-yeol. The charges are grave, focusing primarily on the accusation that Yoon mobilized state resources to block his own arrest.
The core of the prosecution's case involves an incident in January 2025. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) arrived at the presidential residence with a warrant to arrest Yoon. However, investigators were met with a startling defense: personnel from the presidential security service formed human shields and used buses to create barricades, successfully preventing the arrest from being carried out.
Multiple Charges and a Historic Impeachment
The legal proceedings at the Seoul Central District Court are not limited to the obstruction charge. Judges are reviewing a series of related allegations against the former leader. These include his alleged order to delete encrypted phone records and his role in spreading false public announcements connected to a martial law bid in December of the previous year.
This martial law incident was the direct cause of Yoon's political downfall. On April 4, 2025, the Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment of President Yoon, officially removing him from the highest office. The court found his attempt to declare martial law was botched and unconstitutional, marking a pivotal moment in South Korea's political history.
Verdict Awaited in the New Year
The criminal division presiding over the case has scheduled a crucial date. The court's ruling on the obstruction of special public duties charges is planned for January 16, 2026. This upcoming verdict will determine whether the special counsel's request for a lengthy prison sentence is granted.
The case has captivated the nation, highlighting intense political divisions and testing the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions. The outcome in January will set a significant precedent for holding the highest public officials accountable for their actions while in power.
