Yoon Suk Yeol's leadership on brink: Scandals, martial law, and impeachment calls

Yoon Suk Yeol’s presidency in South Korea has been characterised by a series of significant challenges, scandals, and controversies, culminating in the threat of impeachment. His recent decision to declare martial law, which involved deploying troops and helicopters to parliament, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation and ignited widespread protests. Although Yoon quickly rescinded this decision within hours, the incident severely undermined his already precarious political position.
The opposition has formally lodged an impeachment motion against Yoon, alleging constitutional violations and attempts to evade investigations concerning purported illegal activities involving himself and family members.
Once a prominent prosecutor known for his role in convicting former President Park Geun-hye in 2016, Yoon leveraged that reputation to narrowly secure the presidency in 2022. However, his administration has faced a barrage of criticism.
2022 Halloween crowd crush
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol had rejected a bill that aimed to investigate the 2022 Itaewon Halloween crowd crush which resulted in 159 deaths. The opposition and families of the victims criticised the president's decision.
Economic challenges
Economic challenges have been a central feature of Yoon Suk Yeol’s presidency, marked by persistent inflation and sluggish economic growth.
Personal controversies
Personal controversies have further complicated Yoon’s tenure, with allegations involving his wife and mother-in-law tarnishing his public image.
The martial law declaration, described as a reaction to "anti-state elements," has been interpreted as a desperate attempt to alleviate his mounting political woes. Lawmakers, including members of his party, quickly acted to overturn this controversial decision.
The international community, including South Korea’s allies, has also expressed alarm regarding the unfolding crisis, while domestic protests and strikes demanding Yoon's resignation continue to escalate.