Yoon Seok-yeol Calls Martial Law Declaration a 'Salvation Decision' Amid Life Sentence Appeal

The former South Korean leader has doubled down on his defense of the martial law imposition, characterizing it as an essential step taken in the nation’s interest. Through his legal representatives, Yoon Seok-yeol conveyed his perspective to the public, framing the controversial order as a measure designed to protect the country and safeguard its people from perceived threats.

Acknowledgment of Personal Responsibility

While maintaining his justification for the martial law decree, Yoon Seok-yeol’s legal team acknowledged the substantial hardships that have ensued, attributing them partly to his own missteps. This admission reflects a nuanced stance—defending the core decision while recognizing the collateral consequences. According to reports from Jin10, Yoon has demonstrated an awareness of the controversies surrounding his actions.

Firm Rejection of Court Verdict

In a decisive move, Yoon Seok-yeol has firmly rejected the life sentence imposed following his first trial, signaling his determination to pursue legal appeals. His refusal to accept the verdict underscores the ongoing dispute over whether the martial law order constituted an abuse of presidential authority or a legitimate governance decision. The case remains highly contentious within South Korean society, with supporters viewing his actions as necessary crisis management and critics condemning the imposition as a constitutional violation.

The former president’s continued resistance to the court’s judgment suggests a protracted legal battle ahead, with Yoon Seok-yeol likely to leverage appellate procedures to challenge the conviction.