Should Former President Yoon Compensate Citizens for Martial Law Distress?
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Synopsis
A landmark ruling by the South Korean court has ordered former President Yoon Suk Yeol to compensate citizens for emotional trauma linked to his martial law declaration. This unprecedented decision affirms the rights of citizens to seek reparations for psychological harm, marking a significant moment in South Korea's legal history.
Key Takeaways
- South Korean court orders Yoon to compensate citizens.
- 104 individuals involved in a landmark class-action lawsuit.
- Compensation amount set at 100,000 won ($73) each.
- First court ruling acknowledging martial law emotional damage.
- Yoon's legal troubles continue amid questions of accountability.
Seoul, July 25 (NationPress) A South Korean court mandated on Friday that former President Yoon Suk Yeol must compensate ordinary citizens for the emotional trauma inflicted by his declaration of martial law on December 3. The Seoul Central District Court delivered this verdict in favor of 104 individuals who initiated a class-action lawsuit against Yoon, seeking 100,000 won ($73) each for the psychological harm related to the martial law episode.
This marks a groundbreaking ruling as it is the first time a court has acknowledged the suffering experienced by citizens due to martial law and their right to seek reparations.
The court emphasized that Yoon is responsible for providing compensation for the emotional distress, affirming that the plaintiffs' request for 100,000 won is justified.
The ruling highlighted Yoon’s actions that disrupted the National Assembly through the unlawful and unconstitutional martial law enforcement, thus breaching his presidential duty to safeguard the people's rights to life, freedom, and dignity, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Earlier on the same day, Yoon had again failed to appear for his insurrection trial for the third week consecutively, citing health issues.
The 10th session of the trial commenced at the Seoul Central District Court without Yoon, who is currently incarcerated at the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, located just south of the capital.
"Due to his repeated absences, we will initiate investigation proceedings in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code and related rules," the court stated.
"We will confirm with the detention center regarding his health status and if he can be brought in for the proceedings."
Yoon is on trial for charges related to leading an insurrection and misusing his power during his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law in December.
The hearing proceeded as an extraordinary session to examine witnesses for the case.
Special counsel Cho Eun-suk’s team argued that Yoon attended all nine hearings before his second arrest earlier this month without raising any health concerns and even appeared at a separate court hearing last week concerning the legality of his arrest.
"After missing the previous two hearings, he has again failed to show up without valid reasons," they stated.
"We request the court to issue a warrant for his appearance, as he has neglected his duty as a defendant by skipping three consecutive hearings."
Yoon's legal representatives contended that his absence was partly due to ongoing questions regarding the legality of special counsel Cho's team assuming responsibility for prosecuting the former president.
Point of View
Our stance remains aligned with the principles of justice and accountability. This ruling is a significant step in recognizing the rights of citizens who suffered due to governmental actions. Upholding the rule of law is essential in maintaining public trust and ensuring that such historical injustices are addressed.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the court's ruling regarding Yoon Suk Yeol?
The court ordered former President Yoon Suk Yeol to compensate 104 citizens for the emotional distress caused by his martial law declaration.
How much compensation was ordered for each individual?
The court mandated a compensation of 100,000 won ($73) for each of the 104 plaintiffs.
Is this the first ruling of its kind in South Korea?
Yes, this is the first ruling in South Korea where a court has recognized the emotional damage suffered by citizens due to martial law and their right to claim compensation.
What charges is Yoon Suk Yeol currently facing?
Yoon is on trial for leading an insurrection and abusing his power related to his failed attempt to impose martial law.
Why did Yoon fail to appear in court?
Yoon has cited health issues for his repeated absences from court, although this has been questioned by the prosecution.
