South Korea: Ex-Minister Lee Appeals 7-Year Sentence in Martial Law Case

Former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min has been sentenced to seven years in prison for his involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's attempted martial law declaration in December 2024. The court found Lee guilty of aiding Yoon's efforts, including relaying orders to cut off electricity and water to media outlets critical of the administration. The declaration was ultimately unsuccessful after lawmakers broke through a blockade and voted to lift it. ## Latest Update Lee Sang-min has appealed the court's ruling, two days after the guilty verdict. Special counsel had sought a 15-year sentence for Lee, accusing him of abuse of power and perjury during Yoon's impeachment trial. ## Timeline * **2026-02-12:** The Seoul Central District Court sentenced former Interior and Safety Minister Lee Sang-min to seven years in prison for his role in ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration, including relaying orders to cut electricity and water to certain media outlets. * **2026-02-12:** South Korea's former interior minister was sentenced to seven years in prison for abetting then-President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief declaration of martial law in 2024. * **2026-02-14:** Former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min has appealed his 7-year prison term for martial law involvement. * **2026-02-15:** Reporting indicates ongoing developments regarding the declaration of martial law in South Korea, with significant public focus on former government officials and political stability. ## What to Watch * **Appeal Outcome:** Monitor the outcome of Lee Sang-min's appeal, as it could impact the sentences of other officials involved. * **Yoon's Trial:** Pay close attention to the ongoing trial of ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol, where prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. The verdict could further destabilize the political landscape. * **Public Reaction:** Observe public sentiment and potential protests or unrest related to the martial law case and the sentences of former officials.