More than 10,000 citizens participate in the lawsuit… Complaint submitted on the 18th

As the damages lawsuit against former President Yoon Suk-yeol continues, citing mental harm from the declaration of martial law on December 3, the first lawsuit has been filed naming his spouse, Kim Geon-hee, as a co-defendant.

According to the legal community on the 17th, lawyer Kim Kyung-ho will represent over 11,000 citizens in filing a lawsuit against former President Yoon and Ms. Kim on the 18th at the Seoul Central District Court. The plaintiffs are expected to claim damages of 100,000 won per person.

In the complaint, the plaintiffs assert that "the declaration of martial law by former President Yoon is a willful illegal act intended to infringe on the basic rights of the people, exceeding mere negligence," claiming that he should be held personally liable.

"The purpose was to obstruct the Kim Geon-hee special investigation… Joint tortfeasors" claim

In particular, the plaintiffs stated, "The core motivation for the declaration of martial law was a personal agenda to prevent the 'Kim Geon-hee special investigation,'" asserting that Ms. Kim should bear joint liability as she actively participated in the conspiracy by communicating with co-conspirators of the rebellion.

They also argued that former President Yoon's actions were aimed at obstructing investigations into stock price manipulation and luxury goods acceptance allegations, and to destroy evidence related to the 'Myungtaekyun Gate.' They emphasized that Ms. Kim was a substantial instigator who continually pressured and demanded the martial law decision from former President Yoon.

Ongoing wave of lawsuits… Court issues stay of execution

Previously, on the 25th of last month, the Seoul Central District Court recognized former President Yoon's responsibility in a damages lawsuit filed by 104 citizens, ruling in favor of all plaintiffs. Subsequently, similar lawsuits have been filed.

Former President Yoon's side has appealed this ruling and also filed a request for a stay of execution. The court accepted the request for a stay on the condition that the plaintiffs deposit 100,000 won each.

Attention is focused on how much legal and political repercussions this lawsuit will expand.

Image source: Kim Geon-hee / News1, former President Yoon Suk-yeol / News1