South Korea's special prosecution team announced on Thursday that it has appealed a recent conviction and five-year prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The charges included obstructing attempts to arrest him after his failed effort to impose martial law. Prosecutors noted Yoon faced up to 10 years on the obstruction counts. The appeal sends the case to a higher court for further review.
South Korea Prosecutors Appeal Conviction of Ex‑President Yoon Suk Yeol Over Obstruction Charges
FILE PHOTO: Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrives at a court to attend a hearing to review his arrest warrant requested by special prosecutors in Seoul, South Korea, July 9, 2025. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji/Pool/File Photo
SEOUL, Jan 22 (Reuters) — South Korea's special prosecution team said on Thursday it has filed an appeal after a court convicted former President Yoon Suk Yeol in a case that included charges of obstructing attempts to arrest him following his failed bid to impose martial law.
The Seoul Central District Court last week sentenced Yoon to five years in prison in the matter. Prosecutors said he faced up to 10 years on the obstruction counts.
What the Appeal Seeks
The special prosecution team lodged the appeal with an appellate court seeking to overturn or modify aspects of the lower court's ruling. The appeal moves the case to a higher court, which will review the legal findings and the sentence.
Background
The charges against Yoon include allegations that he obstructed attempts to arrest him amid events tied to his attempt to impose martial law. The conviction and sentence mark a significant development in a high-profile legal and political case involving a former head of state.
Reporting by Heejin Kim; Editing by Ed Davies.
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