Why South Korea’s Former Leader Was Jailed for Life

South Korean ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol’s move to declare martial law was a political gamble that backfired spectacularly, taking him from head of state to convicted criminal.

On Dec. 3, 2024, in a rambling late-night speech on live television, Yoon suspended civilian rule in Asia’s fourth-largest economy and sent soldiers into parliament. Although he rescinded the declaration some six hours later, he was later arrested, impeached and removed from office.