Seoul: Hundreds of thousands of people, primarily from the Christian community, gathered in central Seoul on Sunday to protest same-sex marriage and voice concerns about the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. They called for preserving the same-sex marriage ban and addressing pressing national issues, including national security, political strife, social unrest, and economic challenges.
According to Yonhap News Agency, central Seoul is known for its loud weekend rallies, often frustrating residents and tourists. While these gatherings usually face criticism, this one resonated widely amid plummeting support for the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. A recent Gallup Korea survey shows Yoon’s approval rating at just 20 percent, his lowest since taking office, while disapproval has surged to 70 percent, matching the previous record low witnessed in September.
These statistics are troubling, but the underlying reasons are even more significant. Among respondents who disapproved of Yoon’s performance, 15 percent cited con
troversies surrounding first lady Kim Keon Hee, while economic concerns and a lack of communication with the public followed closely behind. Many voters have also expressed discontent with Yoon’s unilateral and seemingly authoritarian governance style.
In light of these challenges, one would expect Yoon to actively seek solutions to improve his administration’s standing. His recent meeting with Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), was seen as an opportunity for such endeavors. However, the meeting ended without any productive outcomes, further deepening public disenchantment with both the president and the ruling party. The presidential office even released a photo that underscored Yoon’s strict demeanor during this failed dialogue, which only fueled the negative perceptions of his leadership style.
Yoon’s remarks, such as his vow to “go my way even if it might invite stoning,” have further strained his relationship with the public. Sentiment toward the first lady is telling: 70 per
cent of respondents believe she should end her public activities, with an even higher disapproval among Yoon’s traditionally loyal supporters. This disconnect signals that Kim’s visibility may be more of a liability than an asset for the administration.
Despite mounting animosity, Kim Keon Hee continues her public appearances, including at events like the Hangang Bridge inspection and a welcome ceremony for Polish President Andrzej Duda. While some appearances serve official purposes, they overlook the prevailing public sentiment, which sees her visibility as provocative.
Moreover, pro-Yoon lawmakers have faced backlash for defending the administration, particularly in response to Han’s reasonable requests for investigations into Kim’s alleged misconduct. The situation worsened when the presidential office appointed a KBS anchor, perceived to be an ally of Kim, as the new president of the state-run broadcaster – a move that many see as politically motivated. This has further aggravated public frustration an
d distrust toward the ruling party.
The situation calls for urgent introspection from both the president and the first lady. It is critical for Yoon to recognize the demands from his own party, the opposition, and, most importantly, the public. Accepting calls for Kim to step back from her public role, reshuffling aides in the presidential office, and appointing a special inspector to address the concerns surrounding the first lady are vital steps toward rebuilding public trust.
Yoon should prioritize collaboration within his party and engage openly with the opposition on key state policies, including budget and economic issues that impact the public’s livelihood. Dialogue on international matters, especially North Korea’s role in conflicts like the Ukraine war, is crucial to reinforcing a commitment to national security.
The Yoon Suk Yeol administration faces a pivotal moment. The current landscape reveals deep public dissatisfaction, largely stemming from issues of governance, leadership style, and the c
ontroversies surrounding the first lady. If Yoon wishes to restore his administration’s credibility and regain the public’s trust, he must undertake significant changes – both in terms of leadership approach and engagement with the people. Fostering a more inclusive and responsive government could pave the way for overcoming the myriad challenges facing South Korea today. The call for reflection is not just a plea for change; it’s an imperative for the survival of his presidency and the stability of the nation.