South Korea's ousted former leader Yoon Suk Yeol issued a call from prison on Wednesday urging his supporters to rally for "freedom" and defending his decision to declare martial law a year ago.

On December 3, 2024, Yoon suspended civilian rule in South Korea for the first time in more than four decades, prompting massive protests and a showdown in parliament.

A year later, the country remains politically polarised as it faces a slowing economy and an ageing population, as well as the lingering threat from North Korea.

In a statement sent by his lawyers, Yoon called on followers to "rise again in defence of the Republic of Korea's freedom".

"This country belongs to you, the sovereign people," he said.

He also said his decision last year to declare martial law had been justified in the

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