Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a public apology on Thursday, addressing the nation amid escalating controversies involving his wife, First Lady Kim Keon Hee. Yoon expressed regret for the concerns caused to the populace and pledged to reform state affairs as his administration moves into the latter half of its term.According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon's approval ratings have plummeted below 20 percent, partly due to allegations regarding his past connections with self-proclaimed power broker Myung Tae-kyun and the ongoing issues surrounding the first lady. During a televised address and press conference, Yoon acknowledged his shortcomings and presented a "heartfelt apology" to the nation, emphasizing his responsibility as president to avoid making excuses.Yoon admitted that despite his efforts over the past 2 1/2 years, there have been perceived failures from the public's perspective. He noted that initiatives he launched for the welfare of South Korea might have inadvertently caused discomfort, a nd controversies involving those close to him have led to public unease.The president specifically addressed the criticisms faced by First Lady Kim, including allegations of accepting a luxury handbag, engaging in stock manipulation, and her involvement in governmental affairs. Yoon stated that Kim should have acted with greater caution and acknowledged that her actions were indeed a source of public concern.In response, Yoon announced the appointment of a secretary to lay the groundwork for an office dedicated to supporting the first lady's activities. He also stated that Kim would limit her public engagements to instances deemed necessary for diplomatic and national interests.President Yoon voiced opposition to a bill proposed by the main opposition Democratic Party, which seeks to appoint a special counsel to investigate allegations against his wife, labeling it "unconstitutional" and "political propaganda." The Democratic Party plans to present the bill at the Assembly's plenary session next Thursda y, following a previous veto by Yoon and its subsequent rejection in a revote.The new bill aims to extend the investigation to encompass allegations that the first lady solicited the assistance of Myung Tae-kyun to conduct favorable public opinion surveys ahead of the 2022 presidential election.
- October 12, 2026
