South Korea's special prosecution team has called for a 15-year prison term for former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, alleging his involvement in aiding the 2024 insurrection led by ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol. The demand, filed on November 26, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing political reckoning following last year's constitutional crisis.
Independent counsel Cho Eun-suk's team accused Han of legitimizing unlawful martial law measures, fabricating official documents, and obstructing judicial processes during Yoon's controversial December 2024 bid to consolidate power. Prosecutors argue the former PM failed to prevent the crisis despite his unique position of authority, instead allegedly enabling actions that threatened democratic institutions.
The developments follow Yoon's April 2024 impeachment and January 2025 indictment, which exposed deep political fractures. Legal observers note this case tests South Korea's ability to hold high-ranking officials accountable—a sensitive issue given the nation's history of turbulent leadership transitions.
As Seoul Central District Court prepares its verdict, analysts warn the outcome could influence foreign investor confidence in Asia's fourth-largest economy. The proceedings also carry implications for cross-strait diplomatic relations, particularly given the ROK's strategic partnerships across Northeast Asia.
