South Korean Court Sentences Former President Yoon Suk Yeol to 30 Years for Drone Flights

A South Korean court sentenced ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol to 30 years in prison. The case involved allegations of ordering drone flights over North Korea to support his declaration of martial law.

The Seoul Central District Court also sentenced former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun. Yoon, previously sentenced to life for insurrection after declaring martial law in December 2024, faced these new charges related to the drone incidents.

North Korea accused South Korea of using drones to drop propaganda over Pyongyang in October 2024. The accusation came amidst heightened tensions between the two nations, although no military clashes occurred.

South Korean lawmakers initially supported suspending the president’s powers after his declaration of martial law.

During an impeachment trial hearing at the Constitutional Court in February 2025, Yoon was present as the proceedings unfolded. Then-Defense Minister Kim initially denied involvement, but the Defense Ministry later stated it could neither confirm nor deny the drone allegations.

Prosecutors argued that Yoon aimed to create a crisis with North Korea to eliminate political opponents and tighten his control over the government. Supporters of Yoon staged rallies outside the Seoul High Court, showing their backing for the former president.

Yoon claimed that his military law declaration was within his constitutional rights and was meant to highlight opposition obstruction. However, the declaration lasted only six hours before being overturned by lawmakers following public outcry.

Yoon, arrested in July 2025, faces various criminal charges and continues to appeal his insurrection verdict. Prosecutors, seeking harsher penalties, had aimed for the death penalty, while Yoon’s defense argues for his exoneration.

Information was contributed by The Associated Press.