The verdict, pronounced by the Seoul Central District Court, was broadcast live-an unprecedented move by, the authorities.

The 66-year-old former leader, who was also fined 18bn won (KRW) (£12m, $17m), faced a string of corruption charges.

She was found guilty of conspiring with her close friend, Choi Soon-sil, and forcing conglomerates for bribes, in return for political help.

Prosecutors have also alleged that Choi had access to official documents and that she played a part in decision making, albeit unofficially.

Prosecutors charged Park with 18 separate crimes and accused her of working with Choi in taking bribes of at least £25m and pressuring companies to fund nonprofits run by Choi’s family.

She was also accused of leaking classified information.

Prosecutors had sought a 30-year jail sentence and an £80m fine on charges that also included bribery and coercion.

Meanwhile, another former South Korean President, Lee Myung-bak, was arrested last month on charges of tax evasion, bribery and embezzlement, reports said.

Lee, 76, said that it was all his fault.

He served as the President from 2008 to 2013.

In a handwritten statement posted on Facebook shortly before his arrest, Lee said, "I consider all this my own fault and feel remorse."

He is expected to be hit with over a dozen charges.

Lee became the fourth former South Korean President to court arrest.

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