South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly avoided impeachment on Saturday when his People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the National Assembly vote. However, his troubles are far from over. The PPP leader called for the suspension of Yoon’s presidential powers following revelations that the president ordered the arrests of political opponents after declaring martial law, a list which included the PPP leader himself.
Yoon subsequently issued a national television apology for his actions, attributing them to desperation but acknowledging the resulting public anxiety and discomfort.
Further impeachment proceedings are possible, based on accusations of an unconstitutional power grab. Regardless of whether he completes his term, Yoon’s presidency is already marred by considerable controversy, echoing the experiences of many of his predecessors.
Yoon’s potential imprisonment would surprise few in Korea, given the high percentage of recently elected presidents facing such consequences. Excluding Yoon, four out of the last six democratically elected presidents have served prison sentences—a rate exceeding 66%.
While South Korea presents a picture of successful democracy, a closer examination reveals a different story. Since World War II, thirteen individuals have led the nation. The first five saw one resign and flee, two ousted in military coups, and one assassinated by a close friend and intelligence chief.
All eight democratically elected presidents, including Yoon, have faced scandal. Even Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kim Dae-jung’s legacy is tarnished by revelations of bribery to secure an inter-Korean summit.
South Korea’s history includes four imprisoned presidents, two impeached (one removed from office), one who died by suicide after corruption investigations involving his family and staff, and two death sentences later commuted.
This pattern is striking, given South Korea’s democratic, technologically advanced, and religiously conservative society. The question remains: why do so few former presidents enjoy peaceful retirements?
“The Korean presidency wields excessive power, arguably creating an ‘imperial presidency’,” Professor Lee explained to Digital. “This inevitably fosters hubris.”
Sung-Yoon Lee, author of *North Korea’s Kim Yo Jong, the Most Dangerous Woman in the World*, also suggested Korean culture plays a significant role. While Christianity has grown, Confucian values emphasizing loyalty and obedience remain influential.
In North Korea, this manifests as unwavering devotion to the Kim dynasty. In South Korea, this deference to authority, coupled with other cultural values like hard work and education, has fueled economic success, evidenced by companies like Samsung and Hyundai.
However, this also fosters an environment where unquestioning obedience is expected, particularly towards leaders like the president. This can lead to a sense of infallibility and disregard for legal boundaries, a pattern evident in the numerous presidential scandals. President Yoon, like his predecessors, is learning that there are limits to his power, and he appears to have already crossed them.