Han Myeong-sook, South Korea’s former Prime Minister, has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for her involvement in the December 3 insurrection, a pivotal moment in the country’s political history. The ruling, delivered on March 15, 2024, by a lower court, marks Han as the first former cabinet minister to face criminal charges directly related to the enforcement of martial law in South Korea.
During the sentencing, the presiding judge emphasized Han’s duty as a leader, stating, “The defendant was a prime minister who had been indirectly given democratic legitimacy and responsibility. Nevertheless, the defendant chose to turn a blind eye and participate as a member of the December 3 insurrection.” This insurrection is viewed as a significant threat to the democratic framework of the nation, evoking fears of a regression to a time when citizens’ rights were routinely violated.
The court found Han guilty on multiple charges, including perjury and the creation of a false official document. While she admitted to some degree of wrongdoing concerning perjury, Han denied all other charges. Following the verdict, the 76-year-old was taken into custody immediately.
In delivering the sentence, the judge articulated the grave implications of Han’s actions, warning that they endangered South Korea’s democratic order. He stated, “As a result of the defendant’s actions, South Korea was in danger of returning to the dark past when the basic rights and liberal democratic order of the people were violated, potentially preventing them from escaping from the quagmire of dictatorship for a long time.”
The ruling is not final; it is expected that Han will appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. The judge acknowledged that this case might reach the highest court, highlighting the significant legal and political ramifications involved.
As Han navigates the appeals process, this landmark ruling underscores the ongoing challenges South Korea faces in reconciling its past with its democratic aspirations. The legal proceedings surrounding Han Myeong-sook are likely to attract close scrutiny both domestically and internationally, as they reflect broader issues of governance, accountability, and the rule of law in a country that has experienced its share of political turmoil.
