SEOUL, South Korea – Prosecutors on Wednesday sought a five-year prison sentence for conservative activist pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon over his alleged role in a courthouse riot last year involving supporters of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office requested the sentence during a hearing at the Seoul Western District Court, where Jeon faces multiple charges, including inciting trespassing in buildings designated for special protection.
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Jeon is accused of instigating violence by pro-Yoon protesters at the court on January 19 last year, following a decision to extend Yoon’s detention over his December 2024 declaration of martial law.
Prosecutors also charged Jeon with violating the Assembly and Demonstration Act and obstructing general traffic. They allege that he urged rally participants gathered at Gwanghwamun Square to march towards the court a day before the violence erupted.
The prosecution argued that attacking a court over dissatisfaction with judicial proceedings or verdicts constitutes a serious offence that undermines the rule of law. Prosecutors further alleged that Jeon encouraged protesters through YouTube broadcasts, urging them to exercise their right to resist.
The case comes amid continued scrutiny of the violence surrounding legal proceedings against Yoon and the actions of his supporters. Jeon’s alleged role in the unrest remains subject to judicial proceedings.
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