- Suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to receive a 3% salary hike for 2025 despite impeachment.
- Martial law declaration in December 2024 led to impeachment and ongoing investigations.
- Public backlash intensifies amid protests and legal ambiguities around salary entitlements.
Suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will receive a 3% salary hike for 2025, increasing his annual income to 262.6 million won ($179,000). The decision comes despite his impeachment following a controversial attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
The crisis, one of South Korea’s most significant political scandals in decades, has deeply divided the nation. While some view Yoon’s impeachment as necessary to preserve democratic values, others argue it reflects political maneuvering by his opponents.
Impeached South Korean Leader Sparks Outrage Over Pay Raise
President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment has not halted his scheduled salary increase for 2025, sparking public outrage. With his annual income set at 262.6 million won, Yoon continues to benefit from presidential entitlements despite being stripped of his duties. Critics question the ethics of this arrangement, citing the absence of work during his suspension.
The impeachment stemmed from Yoon’s brief imposition of martial law in December 2024, an act that thrust South Korea into political turmoil. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has since assumed presidential powers, while Yoon remains under investigation for insurrection. Legal experts emphasize the importance of the Constitutional Court’s pending decision.
The ongoing crisis has revealed a critical governance issue: the lack of legal clarity surrounding impeached officials’ entitlements. While South Korea’s “no work, no pay” principle theoretically applies, no formal rules address salary payments to suspended public officials. This ambiguity has fueled public protests and calls for reform.
Protests for and against Yoon have become a daily fixture in Seoul, highlighting the polarization within South Korea. The scandal’s resolution, particularly the Constitutional Court’s ruling and the outcome of investigations, will likely define the nation’s political trajectory and reshape public confidence in leadership.
The political turmoil surrounding President Yoon Suk Yeol underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in South Korea. Bridging governance gaps and addressing public concerns will be essential to restoring trust in democratic institutions.
“Power does not corrupt. Fear corrupts… perhaps the fear of a loss of power.” – John Steinbeck
This quote reflects the political turmoil caused by Yoon’s controversial actions, illustrating the consequences of clinging to authority.
