Yoon Suk-yeol Exonerated from False Witness Claims in Han Duck-soo Revolt Case

Seoul’s High Court has dismissed the perjury allegation against ex‑President Yoon Suk‑yeol, finding no evidence of false testimony in the trial concerning former Prime Minister Han Duck‑soo's alleged rebellion. The court focused on Yoon's declaration that he planned to convene a cabinet meeting before a martial‑law order slated for 3 December 2024.

Judges concluded that the statement did not amount to a lie, emphasizing that a head of state would naturally contemplate such a meeting ahead of a major legal move. This finding mirrors a May decision by a lower court that also cleared Yoon of the charge.

The prosecution, represented by Special Prosecutor Cho Yun‑suk’s office, had argued that Yoon first called only six ministers and later increased the number to meet a quorum after Han’s suggestion, seeking a fine of ten million won. The appellate panel, however, determined that Yoon appeared to have his own intention to broaden the cabinet gathering, independent of Han's advice.

Yoon remains incarcerated and faces several additional lawsuits linked to his aborted attempt to impose martial law and his subsequent ouster. A district court previously sentenced him to life imprisonment for briefly enacting martial law, a ruling that is still being contested on appeal.