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South Korea's Court to Rule on Yoon's Insurrection Charges

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The court is set to rule on insurrection charges against Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea's ex-leader, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty.
The case follows Yoon Suk Yeol's December 2024 martial law declaration, which led to impeachment in 11 days.
The political fallout weakens his party, which polls 22% vs. 44% for the ruling Democratic party.
The court's decision will test South Korea's democratic accountability amid its authoritarian past.

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Story summary

The court is set to rule on insurrection charges against Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea's ex-leader, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty.
The case follows Yoon Suk Yeol's December 2024 martial law declaration, which led to impeachment in 11 days.
The political fallout weakens his party, which polls 22% vs. 44% for the ruling Democratic party.
The court's decision will test South Korea's democratic accountability amid its authoritarian past.