The Diplomat published an article titled “Kim Keon Hee Risk Is a Ticking Time Bomb for South Korea’s President.”
The article pointed out that President Yoon Suk Yeol’s most significant political risk comes from the controversies involving Mrs. Kim, emphasizing his decision not to investigate these matters. It further noted that his presidency has been largely overshadowed by issues related to the First Lady.
It detailed allegations against Mrs. Kim, including claims of involvement in political nominations, plagiarism in her master’s thesis, stock manipulation linked to Deutsche Motor, and allegations of receiving luxury handbags. The article noted that neither Yoon nor Mrs. Kim have issued any official apologies, and the presidential office has dismissed public demands for an investigation.
Yoon’s approval rating has plummeted to 19%, marking the lowest level since he took office.
The Diplomat reported that supporters and politicians within the conservative camp are increasingly concerned about potential scandals that may emerge during Yoon’s remaining two and a half years in office. The publication also noted that a recent Gallup Korea poll has shown Yoon’s approval rating at an all-time low, with many respondents expressing dissatisfaction regarding issues related to First Lady Kim Keon Hee.
Concerns have been raised about Yoon’s handling of the situation, as he has been seen as justifying and downplaying Mrs. Kim’s alleged misconduct. This has contributed to a perception that he has lost the image of the uncompromising prosecutor who previously led rigorous investigations against politicians and business leaders, with the publication suggesting that he appears to apply a different standard to his own family. Furthermore, it highlighted that since taking office in May 2022, Yoon has frequently underscored the importance of the rule of law in his speeches, asserting that true adherence to the rule of law requires accountability for everyone, including his family, under the same standards and laws.
In related findings, a survey conducted by Gallup Korea from October 29 to 31, which involved phone interviews with 1,005 adults nationwide (with a 95% confidence level and a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points), confirmed that Yoon’s job approval rating stands at 19%, the lowest since he assumed office.
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