A South Korean appellate court on Thursday reduced the prison sentence for former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo from 12 years to 8 years in a high-profile insurrection case linked to a martial law declaration. The Seoul High Court ruled that while Han was guilty of conspiring to incite an insurrection, his role was less central than that of other co-defendants, and he had expressed remorse.
Background of the Case
Han Duck-soo, who served as prime minister under President Yoon Suk Yeol, was convicted in January 2026 for his involvement in a plot to impose martial law in 2025. Prosecutors had sought a 15-year sentence, but the trial court handed down 12 years. The appeals court reduced that to 8 years, citing Han's limited direct involvement and his cooperation with investigators.
Court's Rationale
In its ruling, the court stated that Han was not the mastermind of the plan but played a supporting role by facilitating meetings and providing administrative support. The judges noted that Han had publicly apologized and acknowledged the gravity of his actions. However, they emphasized that the crime of insurrection remains a serious threat to democratic order.
Han's defense team welcomed the reduced sentence but indicated they would consider an appeal to the Supreme Court. Prosecutors, who had argued for a harsher penalty, expressed disappointment and said they would review the ruling.
Reactions and Implications
The case has drawn significant public attention in South Korea, where debates over executive power and democratic accountability continue. Civil society groups have called for greater transparency in military and political decision-making. The ruling is seen as a partial victory for Han, but it does not acquit him of the serious charges.
Han Duck-soo, 75, has been in custody since his arrest in 2025. With time served, he could be eligible for parole after serving roughly two-thirds of his sentence, though the exact timeline depends on further legal proceedings.
