Granted a special presidential pardon, ending her prison sentence early.
On December 24, 2021, Park Geun-hye was granted a special presidential pardon by President Moon Jae-in, leading to her release from prison where she had been serving a 22-year sentence for corruption and election law violations. This controversial decision drew a wide array of responses both domestically and internationally. While some viewed it as a gesture towards national unity and reconciliation, others critiqued it as undermining the judicial process and accountability. Park's release continues to influence public discourse on justice and political reform in South Korea.