Seoul, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : A South Korean appellate court has cleared former President Yoon Suk-yeol of perjury charges linked to a rebellion case involving former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. The Seoul High Court announced the decision on Wednesday, affirming a previous ruling from a lower court made in May.
During a hearing in November, Yoon stated his intention to convene a cabinet meeting before implementing martial law on December 3, 2024. The court found no evidence that he provided false testimony during this declaration.
The appellate court noted, “It is hard to believe that the accused, given his position and experience, did not know that discussing martial law in a cabinet meeting was necessary before its announcement.” They concluded that Yoon appeared to have made efforts to meet the legal requirements for declaring martial law.
Special prosecutor Cho Yoon-suk’s team had accused Yoon of perjury, claiming he initially summoned only six cabinet ministers. They alleged that he later called more ministers to meet the required number based on Han Duck-soo’s suggestion. The prosecution sought a fine of 10 million won (approximately $7,332).
However, the appellate court sided with Yoon, stating it seemed he intended to invite additional cabinet members independently, separate from Han’s advice.
Currently, Yoon Suk-yeol is serving time in prison, facing multiple trials related to his failed martial law attempt and subsequent removal from office. In February, a district court sentenced him to life imprisonment for leading a rebellion by temporarily imposing martial law. His appeal against this ruling is still ongoing.
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