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South Korea's President Yoon Faces Lame Duck Status as Elections Loom

With the parliamentary elections approaching, President Yoon Suk-yeol's party is at risk of losing its majority, potentially limiting his political influence.

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South Korea’s Yoon Suk Yeol (left) and his wife Kim Keon Hee (right) arrive at Hiroshima airport on May 19, 2023. Kim is seen as a political liability for Yoon over a luxury handbag saga. Photo: AFP
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Overview

  • President Yoon Suk-yeol's ruling party is expected to suffer a heavy loss in the upcoming parliamentary elections, risking his status as a political lame duck.
  • Recent opinion polls show a preference for opposition lawmakers, with 51% of respondents favoring them to keep the administration in check.
  • The emergence of the Rebuilding Korea Party (RKP) and its leader, former justice minister Cho Kuk, has shifted voter sentiment towards extensive reforms.
  • Yoon's administration faces criticism for its handling of domestic and foreign policy issues, including strained relations with China and Russia.
  • The outcome of the April 10 elections could significantly impact Yoon's ability to implement promised reforms during his term.