South Korea's former-president Yoon Suk Yeol has been handed a 30-year prison sentence for his role in sending drones into North Korea. The sentencing comes after prosecutors argued that the move was aimed at creating a pretext for Yoon's failed martial law declaration in 2024.
According to reports, the Seoul Central District Court found Yoon guilty of abuse of power and aiding the enemy. The court stated that Yoon conspired in the drone incursion from the outset, undermining state security.
Yoon's lawyers have denied the allegations, claiming that the operation was unrelated to martial law and was instead a response to months of North Korean launches across the border. However, prosecutors argue that the operation heightened tensions with North Korea and led to the leak of classified information, including details about force capabilities.
The sentencing adds to a series of judgments against Yoon, who was removed from office last year after the Constitutional Court upheld his impeachment. Tensions between South and North Korea remain high, with drone flights remaining a flashpoint in their ongoing dispute.
Yoon's appeal against the conviction is expected to take place soon, with the ousted conservative leader insisting that he declared martial law 'solely for the sake of the nation'. The implications of the sentencing are far-reaching, with many in South Korea calling for greater accountability in the wake of the failed martial law declaration.