South Korea Ex-President Lawsuit: Emotional Distress Claims
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is the target of a lawsuit by 105 citizens claiming emotional distress after his controversial martial law declaration. The lawsuit, which News Directory 3 is following closely, centers on violations of basic rights and the anxieties triggered by the former president’s actions. Plaintiffs are seeking damages, with each individual aiming to receive around $73. Legal experts highlight the emotional impact, including “martial law insomnia,” which has affected numerous citizens. This case represents a meaningful legal challenge. Who is representing the plaintiffs, and what do they seek to accomplish? Discover what’s next …
South Koreans Sue Ex-President Over Martial Law Declaration
Updated June 13, 2025
Former south Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, already facing legal challenges, now confronts a lawsuit from 105 citizens seeking damages for emotional distress. the suit stems from Yoon’s short-lived declaration of martial law, which triggered widespread anxiety and memories of authoritarian rule.
the legal action follows Yoon’s impeachment and removal from office after he sent special forces to occupy the National Assembly and briefly placed the press under military control. The plaintiffs are each seeking 100,000 won ($73) in compensation, with the first hearing scheduled for later this month.
The complaint alleges that Yoon’s declaration of emergency martial law and subsequent actions were unlawful, violating the plaintiffs’ basic rights and inflicting mental harm, including fear and anxiety.
lee Gum-gyu, a 52-year-old attorney known for his involvement in presidential impeachment trials, is representing the plaintiffs. He previously participated in the ousting of president Park Geun-hye and Yoon himself.
Lee said that the fear of martial law was palpable, especially considering his son’s military service at the time. He also noted the phenomenon of “martial law insomnia,” where older South Koreans experienced sleeplessness due to panicked memories of past authoritarian regimes.
Han Ki-chang, a real estate agent and plaintiff, said he suffered from “martial law insomnia” during January and february, noting that many others shared the same experience.
“It was real. I had trouble sleeping in january and February,” Han said.“And I could tell I wasn’t the only one.Whenever I’d message people or post in a group chat in the middle of the night, a lot of people would respond, saying they needed to sleep but couldn’t.”
Another group is reportedly preparing a similar lawsuit seeking emotional damages from the former president. Lee is distributing copies of his complaint to facilitate further legal action.
“If we win this case, that might make it possible for all 52 million South Korean citizens to claim damages,” he said.
What’s next
If the plaintiffs are successful, Lee estimates that the total damages could reach $380 million, based on a hypothetical $7.30 payout per citizen.