- South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been impeached by parliament, marking the third time a president has faced impeachment.
- Yoon’s impeachment follows a short-lived declaration of martial law, and if upheld by the Constitutional Court, he would be the second president removed from office.
- Several previous South Korean presidents have faced scandals, corruption, and tragic downfalls.
The history of South Korean presidents is marred by scandals, corruption, and tragic events. The recent impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol is just the latest in a series of tumultuous events that have plagued the country’s leadership.
Previous Presidents’ Downfalls
- Park Geun-hye (2013-2017): Impeached and jailed for corruption, Park was the first woman president of South Korea. She was accused of receiving millions of dollars from conglomerates, including Samsung, and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
- Lee Myung-bak (2008-2013): Sentenced to 15 years in prison for corruption, Lee’s presidency was marked by scandal. He was pardoned by President Yoon in 2022.
- Roh Moo-hyun (2003-2008): A strong supporter of rapprochement with North Korea, Roh took his own life in 2009 amid corruption allegations.
- Chun Doo-hwan (1980-1988): Known as the “Butcher of Gwangju,” Chun was convicted of treason and corruption. He was sentenced to death, but the sentence was commuted to life in prison.
- Park Chung-hee (1963-1979): Assassinated in 1979, Park’s presidency was marked by authoritarian rule and corruption.
These events highlight the tumultuous nature of South Korean politics and the challenges faced by the country’s leaders.
