Overview

• The Seoul Central District Court awarded 100,000 won to each of the 104 plaintiffs and imposed 12 percent annual interest from April 30, 2025 until full payment.
• Judges found that the martial law decree violated Yoon’s constitutional duties by paralyzing state institutions and undermining citizens’ dignity and safety.
• The court characterized his actions as an intentional unlawful act reflecting the undemocratic and illegal nature of the December decree.
• The plaintiffs, organized by Lee Geum-gyu in a suit filed on December 10, claimed psychological harm including fear, anxiety, despair and humiliation.
• Legal experts say this first civil damages award against a former president may spur a wave of similar lawsuits over executive overreach.