Title: The Insurrection Case of Former South Korean Interior Minister Lee Sang-min: A Critical Analysis of Martial Law and its Implications
Abstract: This paper examines the recent conviction of former South Korean Interior Minister Lee Sang-min, who was sentenced to 7 years in prison for his role in the declaration of martial law by ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol in December 2024. The Seoul Central District Court found Lee guilty of taking part in an insurrection by relaying instructions to police and fire agencies to cut power and water to media outlets, as well as committing perjury during Yoon’s impeachment proceedings. This case has significant implications for the understanding of martial law and its consequences in South Korea, and highlights the importance of protecting media freedom and preventing government overreach. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the case, its background, and its implications for South Korean politics and society.
Introduction: On February 12, 2026, the Seoul Central District Court sentenced former South Korean Interior Minister Lee Sang-min to 7 years in prison for his role in the declaration of martial law by ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol in December 2024. Lee, 61, was found guilty of taking part in an insurrection by relaying instructions to police and fire agencies to cut power and water to media outlets, as well as committing perjury during Yoon’s impeachment proceedings. This case has sparked significant interest and debate in South Korea, and has important implications for the understanding of martial law and its consequences in the country.
Background: In December 2024, ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, which was widely seen as an attempt to consolidate power and suppress opposition. The declaration of martial law was met with widespread criticism and opposition, and was eventually lifted after a court ruling. However, the aftermath of the declaration has seen several high-profile convictions, including that of former prime minister Han Duck-soo, who was sentenced to 23 years in jail in January.
The Case Against Lee Sang-min: The case against Lee Sang-min centered on his role in the declaration of martial law, and specifically his instructions to police and fire agencies to cut power and water to media outlets. The prosecution argued that Lee’s actions were a key part of the insurrection, and that he had played a critical role in enabling the plot to proceed. Lee denied the allegations, but the court found him guilty of taking part in an insurrection and committing perjury.
Implications: The conviction of Lee Sang-min has significant implications for South Korean politics and society. Firstly, it highlights the importance of protecting media freedom and preventing government overreach. The cutting of power and water to media outlets was a clear attempt to suppress opposition and limit the ability of the media to report on the declaration of martial law. Secondly, it underscores the need for accountability and transparency in government, and the importance of ensuring that those in power are held to account for their actions. Finally, it has significant implications for the legacy of ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol, and highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the declaration of martial law and its consequences.
Conclusion: The conviction of former South Korean Interior Minister Lee Sang-min is a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding the declaration of martial law by ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol. The case highlights the importance of protecting media freedom, preventing government overreach, and ensuring accountability and transparency in government. As South Korea continues to grapple with the aftermath of the declaration of martial law, it is essential that the country learns from this experience and takes steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. This paper has provided a detailed analysis of the case, its background, and its implications, and highlights the need for ongoing research and debate on this critical issue.
References:
“Former South Korean interior minister Lee Sang-min jailed for 7 years in martial law case.” Reuters, February 12, 2026.
“South Korea’s former prime minister sentenced to 23 years in jail.” BBC News, January 2026.
“Yoon Suk Yeol: South Korea’s ex-president faces trial over martial law declaration.” Al Jazeera, December 2024.
Appendix:
Timeline of events surrounding the declaration of martial law in South Korea
List of key figures involved in the case, including Lee Sang-min and Yoon Suk Yeol
Summary of the charges against Lee Sang-min and the verdict of the Seoul Central District Court.