Why South Korea keeps jailing its ex-presidents

为何韩国持续将前总统监禁?

Asia Specific

2026-01-17

20 分钟
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The former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been found guilty on multiple charges over his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024 - he faces up to ten years in prison, and even the death penalty over charges of insurrection and abuse of power. His prosecution has reopened a familiar question in South Korea: why do so many of its former leaders end up jailed, disgraced, or worse? Is this a sign of a system that holds the powerful to account, or evidence of deep political dysfunction? In this episode of Asia Specific, Mariko Oi is joined by BBC Seoul correspondent Jake Kwon and Jeongmin Kim of the Korea Risk Group to unpack what led to Yoon's dramatic fall, and how South Koreans are reacting to his trial. Also: tracing the country’s striking presidential history - from assassinations and suicides to corruption convictions - and ask why only a handful of former leaders have escaped legal trouble. This episode was recorded on January 12. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk
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  • Another conviction for yet another South Korean president.

  • Because the defendant, then president, undermined the rule of law through his crimes,

  • the defendant is sentenced to five years in prison.

  • The former leader, Yun Suk-yul,

  • has been found guilty on multiple charges over his failed attempt to impose martial law just over a year ago.

  • So far, he faces up to 10 years in prison.

  • But there are even more serious charges on the way,

  • such as insurrection and aiding the enemy, for which he could face the death penalty.

  • But he's not the first former leader to be thrown in jail.

  • In fact,

  • he's following in a long tradition of former South Korean presidents handed criminal convictions when they leave office.