South Korean court administration sues riot participants for 1.1 billion won

The National Court Administration of South Korea has filed a civil lawsuit against five individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 2025 riot at the Seoul Western District Court. The lawsuit, filed with the Seoul Central District Court, seeks approximately 1.17 billion won in damages for facility restoration costs and delayed interest.

The riot occurred on January 19, 2025, following the issuance of an arrest warrant for former President Yoon Suk Yeol. During the incident, protesters entered the courthouse, causing extensive damage to windows, doors, exterior walls, office furniture, and computer equipment, while also assaulting police officers.

The administration stated that the legal action is necessary because the collective violence and destruction targeted a critical institution of judicial authority. They emphasized that the incident went beyond simple property damage, threatening the independence of the judiciary and the foundations of the rule of law and democracy.