South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a public apology to the nation on Thursday for alleged political scandals but rejected calls for a new investigation into his wife, Kim Keon-hee, as “political propaganda.”
In a televised statement, Yoon expressed regret for his shortcomings, acknowledging that his actions had caused public concern, despite his efforts to stand with the people.
Yoon and his wife have been linked to several scandals, including allegations of interfering in the ruling party’s 2022 nomination process, ties to a political broker, possible stock manipulation, and accepting a luxury bag as a gift.
His approval rating has dropped below 20% amid these controversies, particularly after phone recordings surfaced, suggesting his involvement in the nomination interference.
While Yoon took full responsibility for the scandals, he criticized opposition parties for pushing for a special counsel to investigate his wife, calling it “political propaganda” and a violation of the separation of powers.
He defended his wife, claiming she has been “demonized” and that previous investigations, which resulted in no indictments, were sufficient.
Yoon stated that demanding further probes infringes on the human rights of those already investigated.
