Full History Of Yoon Suk Yeol In Timeline From 1960

2 hours ago : Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korean ex-president, receives life sentence for insurrection and martial law.

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol receives a life sentence for leading an insurrection and imposing martial law. The court found him guilty.

December 1960: Yoon Suk Yeol Born

In December 1960, Yoon Suk Yeol was born. He later became a South Korean politician and attorney.

1960: Yoon Born in Seoul

In 1960, Yoon Suk Yeol was born in Bomun-dong, Seongbuk District, Seoul, and raised in Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun District. His father was a professor at Yonsei University, and his mother was a lecturer at Ewha Womans University.

1975: Student Defense Corps Created

In 1975, the student defense corps was created by the South Korean government to replace the student council.

1977: Yoon Met Kim Yong-hyun

In 1977, while attending Chungam High School, Yoon Suk Yeol met Kim Yong-hyun, the future Minister of National Defense.

1979: Yoon Graduated from Chungam High School

In 1979, Yoon Suk Yeol graduated from Chungam High School.

1979: Lee Sang-min Compares Police Protests to 1979 Coup

In response to police protests, Lee Sang-min compared them to the 1979 Coup d'état of December Twelfth, but later walked back the remarks. Yoon also criticized the protests.

1980: Influence of Milton Friedman's 'Free to Choose'

In 1980, Milton Friedman published "Free to Choose: A Personal Statement," which Yoon Suk Yeol cited as a major influence on his belief in economic liberalism.

Free to Choose: A Personal Statement

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1980: Martial Law Under Chun Doo-hwan

In 1980, South Korea was under the military dictatorship of Chun Doo-hwan, during which martial law was declared.

1982: Yoon Exempted From National Service

In 1982, Yoon Suk Yeol was exempted from national service due to anisometropia. He later stated that he was unable to obtain a driver's license because of the condition.

1983: Yoon Earned Bachelor of Laws

In 1983, Yoon Suk Yeol earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Seoul National University.

1987: Democratic History Since 1987

Since 1987, South Korea has a democratic history, and Yoon Suk Yeol was the shortest-serving directly elected president.

1988: Yoon Earned Master of Laws

In 1988, Yoon Suk Yeol earned a Master of Laws degree from Seoul National University.

1988: First South Korean Leader Not to Attend Ceremony

On 2 September, Yoon Suk Yeol boycotted the opening of the inaugural session of the new National Assembly, making him the first South Korean leader not to attend the ceremony since the restoration of democracy in 1988.

1991: Yoon Passed the Bar Exam

In 1991, Yoon Suk Yeol passed the bar exam after multiple attempts, placing him in the same graduating class as Democratic Party Assemblyman Park Beom-kye.

1994: Yoon Started Career at Daegu Public Prosecutor's Office

In 1994, Yoon Suk Yeol started his career at Daegu Public Prosecutor's Office, heading the Special Branch and Central Investigation Department.

1997: Moratorium on Executions

The trial of Yoon for insurrection charges began on 14 April 2025. If found guilty, Yoon faces the death penalty or life imprisonment, although there has been a moratorium on executions in South Korea since the country's last execution in 1997.

1999: Yoon Ordered Arrest of Police Assistant Commissioner

In 1999, Yoon Suk Yeol ordered the arrest of Police Assistant Commissioner Park Hui-won, who was corrupt despite strong objections from bureaucrats.

January 2002: Yoon Worked as a Lawyer at Bae, Kim & Lee

In January 2002, Yoon Suk Yeol worked briefly as a lawyer at Bae, Kim & Lee but left because he felt the position was unsuitable.

2006: Yoon Apprehended Chung Mong-koo

In 2006, Yoon Suk Yeol apprehended Chung Mong-koo for his complicity in a slush fund case at Hyundai Motor Company.

2006: Medical School Enrollment Quota

The medical student enrollment quota was last been fixed in 2006, before the announcement on February 6, 2024.

2008: Yoon Worked on BBK Incident

In 2008, Yoon Suk Yeol worked for the independent counsel team resolving the BBK incident related to President Lee Myung-bak.

2012: Marriage to Kim Keon Hee

In 2012, Yoon Suk Yeol married Kim Keon Hee, who later expressed her preference for the term "president's spouse" instead of "first lady".

2012: NIS Public Opinion Manipulation Scandal

In 2012, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) was involved in a public opinion manipulation scandal, which Yoon Suk Yeol investigated in 2013.

2013: Yoon Led Investigation into NIS Scandal

In 2013, Yoon Suk Yeol led a special investigation team that looked into the National Intelligence Service (NIS)'s involvement in the 2012 NIS public opinion manipulation scandal.

December 2016: Impeachment of President Park Geun-hye

In December 2016, the investigation into the Choi Soon-sil scandal, in which Yoon was a part of, led to the impeachment of then-president Park Geun-hye.

May 2017: Yoon Appointed Chief of Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office

On 19 May 2017, Yoon Suk Yeol was appointed chief of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office by the newly elected president Moon Jae-in.

2017: Hong Joon-pyo's Presidential Nomination

In 2017, Hong Joon-pyo was the nominee for PPP predecessor Liberty Korea Party in the presidential election.

2018: Suspected election rigging of the Ulsan mayoral race

In 2018 there was suspected election rigging of the Ulsan mayoral race for Mayor Song Cheol-ho by senior secretaries at the Blue House.

2018: Reduce Carbon Emissions

President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged to reduce carbon emissions by 40% from 2018 levels by 2030.

June 2019: Yoon Nominated as Prosecutor General

On 17 June 2019, Yoon Suk Yeol was nominated as prosecutor general, replacing Moon Moo-il. His nomination was welcomed by the Democratic Party and the Party for Democracy and Peace.

2019: Yoon Suk Yeol Served as Prosecutor General

From 2019, Yoon Suk Yeol served as the prosecutor general of South Korea.

January 2020: Yoon Considered Potential Presidential Candidate

Since January 2020, Yoon Suk Yeol had been considered a potential presidential candidate for the 2022 presidential election after the Cho Kuk controversies.

April 2020: Democratic Party Attacked Yoon

In April 2020, Democratic Party lawmakers attacked Yoon Suk Yeol and called on him to resign after the prosecution started investigations into election law violation cases.

November 2020: Yoon Suspended from Position as Prosecutor General

On 24 November 2020, Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae suspended Yoon Suk Yeol from his position, citing alleged ethical violations, abuse of power, and interference in investigations. Yoon filed an injunction which was temporarily approved.

2020: Yoon and Kim became close friends

In 2020, Yoon Suk Yeol and Kim Yong-hyun became close friends after Yoon was suspended from his prosecutor general duties. They had a conversation about South Korean political figures, which got Yoon interested in running for president.

2020: Allegations of Politically Motivated Criminal Complaints

In 2020, ahead of the legislative elections, Yoon Suk Yeol allegedly ordered a senior prosecutor and politician to file politically motivated criminal complaints against Democratic Party politicians, with the goal of influencing the election outcome. In response to these allegations, investigations were launched by the Supreme Prosecutor's Office and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO).

January 2021: Yoon Led Presidential Candidate Polls

In a January 2021 poll including all possible presidential candidates, Yoon Suk Yeol led as the most favored with 30.4 percent of the vote.

March 2021: Yoon Resigned as Prosecutor General

In March 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol tendered his resignation as the prosecutor general, which was accepted by President Moon.

June 2021: Yoon Announced Presidential Candidacy

On 29 June 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol announced his candidacy in the 2022 presidential election.

June 2021: Yoon Announced Candidacy for Presidential Election

On 29 June 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol officially announced his candidacy in the 2022 presidential election.

July 2021: Yoon Joined People Power Party

On 30 July 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol officially joined the conservative People Power Party (PPP).

September 2021: Newsverse Report on Alleged Political Interference

In September 2021, Newsverse reported allegations that Yoon Suk Yeol, during his tenure as prosecutor general, instructed a senior prosecutor and politician to file politically motivated criminal complaints against Democratic Party politicians prior to the 2020 legislative elections. Yoon denied these allegations and reported informant Cho Sung-eun and Director of the National Intelligence Service Park Jie-won to the CIO.

September 2021: Call for Redeployment of Tactical Nuclear Weapons

In September 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol stated that he would ask the United States to redeploy tactical nuclear weapons in South Korea if there is a threat from North Korea. This proposal was rejected by the U.S.

October 2021: Controversial Remarks About Chun Doo-hwan

In October 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol made remarks in Busan complimenting former authoritarian military dictator Chun Doo-hwan, which sparked controversy due to Chun's history of human rights abuses. Yoon later apologized for the remarks and denied the alleged symbolism of a related photo posted on Instagram.

November 2021: Openness to THAAD Missile Deployments

In November 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol indicated that he would be open to more U.S. THAAD missile deployments in South Korea.

November 2021: People Power Party Presidential Nomination

On November 5, 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol officially secured the People Power Party's nomination for the 2022 presidential election, winning 47.85% of the votes after a four-day voting period. On November 7, 2021, Yoon pledged to pardon former presidents Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye if elected.

2021: Contradiction of Supreme Court Ruling

Critics argued that the actions of the police under the Yoon administration in November 2024, suppressing anti-government protests, contradicted a 2021 Supreme Court of Korea ruling.

2021: Yoon Suk-yeol elected president

In 2021, Yoon Suk-yeol was elected president of South Korea, marking a shift towards right-wing and conservative politics. His professional history already showed abuse of power.

2021: Drop in Approval Rating

Less than three months into his presidency, Yoon's approval rating dropped to less than 30 percent amidst the 2021–2023 inflation surge, a controversial education policy rollout, controversies over nepotism in personnel appointments, the police bureau proposal, and conflicts within the PPP.

2021: Yoon's Resignation as Prosecutor General

Prior to his resignation as prosecutor general in 2021, Yoon's clashes with the Moon administration led to his rise as a potential presidential candidate.

2021: Yoon Suk Yeol Served as Prosecutor General

Until 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol served as the prosecutor general of South Korea.

March 2022: Announcement of Presidential Office Relocation

In March 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol announced that he would move the presidential office to the Ministry of National Defense building in Yongsan District, Seoul, instead of the Blue House.

March 2022: Yoon Wins 2022 Presidential Election

In March 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly won the presidential election with 48.56% of the votes, defeating Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae Myung. The election was the closest in South Korean history.

March 2022: Yoon Defeated Lee Jae Myung in Election

On 9 March 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly defeated Democratic Party nominee Lee Jae Myung in the presidential election.

May 2022: Criticism of Lack of Women's Representation in Government

As of May 2022, there were only a few women among the State Councilors and vice-ministerial level officials in the Yoon Suk Yeol government, leading to criticism of a lack of women's representation. Yoon later appointed Park Soon-ae and Kim Seung-hee as ministers to address these criticisms, increasing the ratio of female-to-male ministers to 30%.

May 2022: Opening of the Blue House as a public park

On May 10, 2022, the Blue House was opened to the public as a park, following Yoon's decision to relocate the presidential office.

May 2022: Increased Government Official Absences

Starting in May 2022, the frequency of government officials not attending National Assembly sessions increased under Yoon's administration.

July 2022: Tax Reform Plan Announced

In July 2022, Yoon's administration announced a tax reform plan, including easing corporate tax rates and adjusting the tax base, with the goal of enhancing corporate competitiveness.

July 2022: Proposal for a 'Police Bureau'

In late July 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol proposed the creation of a "police bureau" to increase government oversight of the police force, leading to protests by police officers who viewed it as a threat to the political neutrality of the police.

August 2022: Yoon Snubs Meeting with Nancy Pelosi

In August 2022, during U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to South Korea as part of a larger Asia tour, Yoon Suk Yeol did not meet with her, citing his vacation plans as the reason.

August 2022: Yoon unveils plan for North Korea

On August 15, 2022, marking the National Liberation Day of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol unveiled a plan that could include a "large-scale food program", as well as plans to improve North Korea air and sea ports, enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen health care infrastructure and attract foreign investment on the condition North Korea takes "genuine and substantive" moves towards denuclearization.

September 2022: Controversy over Yoon's remarks in New York

On 21 September 2022, after chatting with U.S. President Joe Biden outside the seventh Global Fund meeting in New York City, Yoon Suk Yeol was filmed telling his aides and top diplomats, "Wouldn't [inaudible] lose face if these saekki do not pass it in the legislature?" The video went viral, leading to controversy and a drop in Yoon's approval rating. The Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs sued MBC, which broke the story on air, "to restore trust in diplomacy".

October 2022: Itaewon Crowd Crush

On October 29, 2022, at least 158 people died in a crowd crush during Halloween festivities in Seoul's Itaewon district. Yoon declared a state of national mourning, but his handling of the situation faced criticism.

November 2022: Yoon promotes cooperation with Africa

In November 2022, President Yoon Suk Yeol, in his welcoming speech to the Africa Night held in Seoul, stated that "Africa is a land of new opportunity", indicating his intention to strengthen cooperation with Africa. The event was attended by African ambassadors and nominees from 31 countries, and President William Ruto of Kenya.

December 2022: Announcement of the Indo-Pacific Strategy

In December 2022, the Yoon administration announced the Indo-Pacific Strategy, a comprehensive strategy that encompasses the economic and security spheres of Indo-Pacific countries.

2022: Opposition to Feminism

Following an anti-feminist backlash in 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol acted in opposition to feminism, aiming to appeal to young men. Yoon stated structural sexism no longer exists in South Korea and pledged to abolish the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. Political conflict related to gender issues was intense in South Korea in 2022.

2022: Choi Jae-hyung Also Joined PPP

In 2022, Choi Jae-hyung, a fellow 2022 presidential candidate welcomed Yoon into the PPP

2022: Fiscal Austerity Policy

In 2022, The Yoon Suk Yeol administration emphasized sound fiscal policy and declared fiscal austerity policy.

2022: Yoon Suk Yeol Became President of South Korea

In 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol became the 13th president of South Korea.

2022: Pet Count in 2022

In 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol owned four dogs and three cats.

2022: Yoon Pursued Friendlier Relations with Japan and the United States

In 2022, during his presidency, Yoon Suk Yeol pursued friendlier relations with Japan and the United States, and has been described as hawkish toward North Korea. His handling of the Seoul Halloween crowd crush in 2022 and the medical crisis has attracted criticism.

2022: Yoon Announced Candidacy for Presidential Election

On 29 June 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol officially announced his candidacy in the 2022 presidential election.

2022: Won PPP Presidential Nomination

On November 5, 2021, Yoon Suk Yeol officially secured the People Power Party's nomination for the 2022 presidential election.

2022: Yoon considered potential presidential candidate

Yoon Suk Yeol had been considered a potential presidential candidate for the 2022 presidential election ever since the aftermath of the Cho Kuk controversies

March 2023: Criticism of Yoon's approach to wartime labor compensation

As of March 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol's government faced criticism for its stance on compensating victims of forced labor during World War II, proposing voluntary donations from South Korean companies instead of seeking direct compensation or apology from the Japanese government and companies. 11 of the 15 surviving victims opposed Yoon's government's solution and demanded direct compensation from the Japanese government and companies.

March 2023: Yoon-Kishida summit in Tokyo

On March 16, 2023, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a summit with Yoon Suk Yeol in Tokyo to address wartime labor disputes and other issues. Yoon also met with Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan leader Kenta Izumi who discussed several bilateral disputes between the countries with Yoon including the Statue of Peace, which Izumi asked Yoon to remove.

March 2023: Controversy over Yoon's remarks at Samiljeol commemorative event

Yoon Suk Yeol's remarks at a commemorative event related to the Samiljeol on March 1, 2023, sparked controversy in South Korea. He stated that "Korea lost its national sovereignty and suffered because it was not properly prepared for historical changes in the world at the time, and we should reflect on this past.", drawing criticism from opposition parties who accused him of pro-Japanese sentiments.

April 2023: Yoon's Visit to the U.S.

In April 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee visited Washington, D.C., at the invitation of Kevin McCarthy and Chuck Schumer, commemorating 70 years of the alliance between South Korea and the United States. Yoon addressed the U.S. Congress on April 27, emphasizing the strong relationship between the two nations.

April 2023: Drop in Approval Rating

In April 2023, Yoon's approval rating dropped back to 30% largely due to widespread disapproval of Yoon's Japanese policy.

April 2023: Yoon hints at lethal aid to Ukraine

In a Reuters interview on April 19, 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol hinted at supplying lethal aid to Ukraine, stating that South Korea might find it difficult to insist only on humanitarian or financial support in the event of any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war.

May 2023: Yoon attends G7 summit

In May 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol attended the G7 summit, where he met with leaders of the Quad nations. He called for addressing regional challenges and providing infrastructure and development assistance, while emphasizing South Korea's commitment to international law and support for Ukraine's freedom.

May 2023: Kishida visits Seoul

On May 7, 2023, Kishida visited Seoul in a historic trip to further deepen ties. Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized that historical issues had to be "completely settled". Kishida also expressed sympathy to Korean victims of colonial Japan but was criticized for not apologizing for forced labor victims.

July 2023: Yoon visits Ukraine

In July 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol visited Ukraine after visiting Lithuania and Poland for the NATO summit. Specifically, he visited Bucha and Irpin.

August 2023: South Korea increases financial aid to Ukraine

In August 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol announced that South Korea would provide $394 million in financial aid to Ukraine for 2024, an eightfold increase from 2023.

August 2023: Yoon, Kishida and Biden meet at Camp David

On August 18, 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol and Kishida met with Biden at Camp David in the United States. The three announced the Camp David Principles, a set of strategies to counter the influence of China, North Korea, and Russia as well as limit the risk of economic disruptions in the future.

August 2023: Non-Attendances in National Assembly

Over a period of one year and four months from May 2022 to August 2023, there were 29 non-attendances by heads of government departments, vice ministers, and heads of affiliated organizations.

October 2023: Condemnation of October 7 Attacks

In October 2023, Yoon condemned the October 7 attacks and sought to strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia, supporting South Korean companies' participation in the Neom smart city project.

November 2023: South Korea suspends participation in Comprehensive Agreement Pact

In November 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol's government suspended South Korea's participation in the Comprehensive Agreement Pact – a pact aimed at lowering tensions between South and North Korea – after North Korea launched a satellite into space.

December 2023: Yoon's International Trips

As of December 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol had made trips to twenty-six countries during his tenure, engaging with fellow leaders at summits such as NATO, APEC, G20, and G7.

2023: Neutralization of Moon Administration's efforts

By the end of 2023, Moon's efforts have been virtually neutralized due to President Yoon Suk-yeol's coercive measures to punish members of the former Moon administration, along with attacks on gender equality, setting South Korea to decrease its LDI levels.

2023: Reversal of Nuclear Phase-Out Policy

In 2023, President Yoon Suk Yeol reversed the previous administration's nuclear phase-out policy, resuming construction of nuclear reactors. The goal is to expand nuclear output to 34.6% share of South Korea's electricity generation by 2036, and reduce carbon emissions by 40% from 2018 levels by 2030.

2023: Decline in World Press Freedom Index

In 2023, South Korea's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders dropped from 47th place to 62nd place.

2023: Attempt to Increase Maximum Weekly Working Hours

In 2023, Yoon Suk Yeol's administration attempted to increase South Korea's maximum weekly working hours from 52 to 69, but the plan was reconsidered due to widespread backlash.

2023: Business Succession Tax Deductions

In 2023, there was an increase in the deduction amount for mid-sized enterprises for 'business succession tax deductions' compared to 2022. Small and medium-sized enterprises also saw their deduction amounts double compared to 2022.

February 2024: South Korea and Saudi Arabia Expand Defense Cooperation

In February 2024, South Korea and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding to expand defense cooperation.

February 2024: Increase in Medical School Enrollment Quota

On February 6, 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol announced that the medical student enrollment quota would be increased from 3,058 to 5,058 students per academic year from 2025 onward. This decision was met with opposition from the medical community, leading to strikes and resignations.

May 2024: Drop in World Press Freedom Index

In May 2024, South Korea's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index dropped to 62nd place, influenced by the Yoon administration's sanctions against critical media outlets like MBC. A hot mic incident involving an MBC journalist led to a police raid on the journalist's house and a retaliatory banning of MBC from access to Yoon.

May 2024: Lowest Approval Rating Recorded

In May 2024, Yoon recorded the lowest approval rating since he took office at a rate of 21%, with his economic and foreign policy, as well as his lack of communication, being cited as the main reasons for the low approval rating.

July 2024: Petition for Impeachment

In June and July 2024, over a million people signed a petition calling for Yoon to be impeached.

July 2024: Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Wins Czech Tender

On July 17, 2024, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power secured a tender for the construction of two new units at the Dukovany Nuclear Power Station in the Czech Republic. Yoon Suk Yeol viewed this project as a stepping stone for further nuclear industry export opportunities.

August 2024: Yoon outlines policy on Korean reunification

On August 15, 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol outlined his policy on Korean reunification, calling for a "unified Republic of Korea". It was seen as South Korea's most explicit policy statement to date in support of unification by absorption, referring to unifying the Korean Peninsula under the Republic of Korea.

November 2024: Yoon's Phone Call with Donald Trump

In November 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol had a 12-minute phone call with US president-elect Donald Trump. They discussed trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, as well as the North Korean situation involving Ukraine.

November 2024: Controversy over New Right appointments and restrictions on Korea Liberation Association

In November 2024, an event by the Korea Liberation Association was scheduled to be held at Seoul National Cemetery, but the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs blocked the event from being held. Critics alleged that the Yoon administration was retaliating against the association for criticizing the administration's New Right tendencies.

November 2024: Allegations of Police Suppression of Protests

In November 2024, critics alleged that police, under orders of the Yoon administration, were being used to suppress anti-government protests. According to MBC, police unsuccessfully applied for four arrest warrants for protestors, contradicting a 2021 Supreme Court of Korea ruling.

November 2024: Calls for Yoon's Resignation

In November 2024, over 3,000 professors and researchers signed a declaration asking Yoon to resign. On 28 November, 1,466 South Korean Catholic priests called for Yoon to be impeached, issuing a declaration titled "How can a person be like this".

November 2024: Yoon suggests potential arms supply to Ukraine

On 7 November 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol suggested that South Korea could provide weapons to Ukraine. However, the South Korean public was widely opposed to direct arms supplies to Ukraine.

December 2024: Approval Rating Drops Following Martial Law Attempt

Following his brief attempt to declare martial law, a poll by Gallup held from 3 to 5 December 2024 found that Yoon's approval rating had fallen to 13% in part due to the declaration of martial law. A week later, Gallup found that his approval rating fell further to 11%.

December 2024: Accusations of Attempted Imposition of Martial Law

In December 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol faced charges connected to his attempted imposition of martial law, which contributed to the extension of his detention by the Seoul Central District Court in January 2026.

December 2024: Police Attempt to Search Yoon's Office

On 11 December 2024, South Korean police attempted to search Yoon's office as part of an investigation into his controversial declaration of martial law. The search was blocked due to a lack of agreement with the presidential security service.

December 2024: Yoon Declared Martial Law

On 3 December 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in South Korea, accusing members of the National Assembly of supporting North Korea, but lifted it after the Assembly passed an emergency motion nullifying the declaration. An impeachment motion was introduced against Yoon the next day.

December 2024: Declaration of Martial Law

On 3 December 2024, Yoon declared martial law and vowed to "rebuild a democratic and free Korea" after accusing other South Korean politicians of being "communist". The decree was soon declared invalid by the National Assembly, but Yoon complied and lifted the declaration after his cabinet convened.

December 2024: Staff Resignations and Calls for Yoon's Resignation

On 4 December 2024, a large number of Yoon's staff resigned following the end of martial law. On 8 December 2024, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon stated that Yoon would resign as early as February 2025 if he remained in office. On 12 December, Yoon vowed to "fight to the end", resisting the push for his resignation.

December 2024: Apology for Martial Law Declaration and Arrest of Kim Yong-hyun

On 7 December 2024, Yoon issued an apology in a televised address following widespread criticism over his declaration of martial law. On 8 December, Kim Yong-hyun was arrested for his role in the martial law order, after resigning from office three days prior.

December 2024: Overseas Travel Ban Issued Against Yoon

On 9 December 2024, the Ministry of Justice issued an overseas travel ban against Yoon following an investigation into allegations of rebellion linked to his brief imposition of martial law.

December 2024: Summons for Questioning

Yoon was summoned thrice by the CIO for questioning on 18, 25, and 29 December 2024 over his declaration of martial law. He refused to attend any of the summons.

2024: R&D budget cut causes uproar

In 2024, The decision by the Yoon administration to reduce South Korea's research and development (R&D) budget by 15% compared to the previous year has caused significant uproar among researchers who fear this cutback might undermine South Korea's competitiveness in the global technology sector.

2024: Accusations of covering up military deaths

In 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol was accused of covering up for senior military officials over the deaths of one South Korean marine in 2023 and two more soldiers in 2024 by blocking bills seeking to investigate the matter.

2024: Law Outlawing Dog Meat Trade

In 2024, a law outlawing the trade and consumption of dog meat in South Korea was passed under Yoon Suk Yeol's presidency.

2024: V-Dem Institute Report on South Korea's Democracy

In 2024, the Swedish V-Dem Institute reported that under Yoon Suk Yeol's administration, South Korea was dropping in its liberal democracy index (LDI). They described Yoon as "South Korea's Donald Trump."

2024: Opposition Victory in Parliamentary Elections

In the 2024 parliamentary elections, the opposition achieved a landslide victory, weakening Yoon's position. The PPP obtained 108 seats, while the main opposition party, the DPK, secured 175 seats.

2024: Yoon's Party Suffered Defeat in Parliamentary Elections

In the 2024 parliamentary midterm elections, Yoon Suk Yeol's party suffered a defeat, which weakened his political power.

2024: Conviction and Imprisonment Sentence

On 16 January 2026, Yoon was convicted in a related trial and sentenced to five years' imprisonment on charges of abuse of power, obstruction of justice and falsification of official documents related to his failed martial law bid in 2024.

2024: Documentary Attendance

On 21 May 2025, Yoon made his first public appearance without connection to his legal cases, attending the premiere in Seoul of a documentary on alleged electoral fraud in the 2024 parliamentary election.

2024: South Korea-Africa Summit

Yoon Suk Yeol has been promoting the 2024 South Korea-Africa Summit for the first time.

January 2025: Yoon Suk Yeol Arrested and Incarcerated

In January 2025, Yoon Suk Yeol became the first sitting president in South Korean history to be arrested and incarcerated.

January 2025: Suspension of Impeachment Proceedings

On 14 January 2025, the impeachment proceedings against Yoon were abruptly suspended after a brief period, as he failed to attend the session at the Constitutional Court. Subsequent hearings were held until 25 February 2025. On 21 January, he attended the proceedings for the first time.

January 2025: Arrest Warrant Issued and Standoff

On 31 December 2024, the Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon with charges relating to abuse of power and orchestration of the martial law declaration. On 1 January 2025, he released a statement to his supporters pledging to "fight alongside you to the very end to protect this nation". On 3 January, authorities tried to carry out the warrant at the presidential compound but abandoned the attempt. On 6 January, the warrant expired, and the Seoul Western District Court extended the warrant the next day.

January 2025: Investigation for Treason

On 7 January 2025, it was reported that the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) was investigating Yoon for treason based on evidence that he had attempted to manufacture a conflict with North Korea by launching a drone from Baengnyeongdo.

January 2025: Police Seizure of Yoon's Phones

On May 23, police announced the seizure of Yoon's phones as part of its investigations into Yoon's attempted arrest in January 2025.

February 2025: Conclusion of Impeachment Trial

On 25 February 2025, Yoon issued an apology on the last day of the impeachment trial, but continued to defend his actions. The trial concluded with a total of 11 hearings held over 73 days and 16 people testifying as witnesses.

February 2025: Potential Resignation Date Proposed

On 8 December 2024, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon stated that Yoon would resign as early as February 2025 if he remained in office. A PPP special task force proposed that Yoon leave office in February or March 2025 and called for elections to replace him to be held in April or May.

March 2025: Potential Resignation Date Proposed

A PPP special task force proposed that Yoon leave office in February or March 2025 and called for elections to replace him to be held in April or May. This proposal was made on 8 December 2024.

April 2025: Insurrection Trial Begins

On 14 April 2025, the trial of Yoon for insurrection charges began. Yoon denied the charges, saying his attempt to impose martial law did not amount to an insurrection.

April 2025: Raid on Yoon's Residence and Indictment

On 30 April 2025, prosecutors conducted a court-approved raid on Yoon's private residence as part of an investigation into allegations of back room deals and influence peddling. On 1 May, Yoon was indicted for abuse of power.

April 2025: Impeachment Upheld and Removal from Office

On 4 April 2025, by a unanimous decision, an eight-judge Constitutional Court upheld Yoon's impeachment, formally removing him from office. This made him the shortest-serving president in South Korea's democratic history. An election to determine his successor was required to take place within 60 days following his removal.

May 2025: Departure from PPP and Public Appearance

On 17 May 2025, Yoon left the People Power Party, and endorsed its candidate, Kim Moon-soo, for the 2025 South Korean presidential election. On 21 May, he made his first public appearance without connection to his legal cases, attending the premiere in Seoul of a documentary on alleged electoral fraud in the 2024 parliamentary election.

July 2025: Second Arrest of Yoon

On 10 July 2025, Yoon was arrested for the second time on additional charges brought by special counsel Cho Eun-suk.

July 2025: Request to Detain and Indictment

On 6 July 2025, South Korean prosecutors filed a request to detain Yoon a day after he appeared before them for questioning over his declaration of martial law last year. He was formally arrested again on 10 July 2025 and indicted for abuse of power on 19 July.

August 12, 2025: Kim Keon Hee's Arrest

On August 12, 2025, Kim Keon Hee was arrested after the Seoul Central District Court granted a special prosecutor's request for an arrest warrant amid serious corruption allegations.

October 2025: Allegations of Drone Deployments toward North Korea

In October 2025, Yoon Suk Yeol faced allegations tied to drone deployments toward North Korea, which contributed to the extension of his detention by the Seoul Central District Court in January 2026.

2025: Yoon Suk Yeol Removed From Office

In 2025, Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from his presidential office.

2025: Increase in Pet Ownership

In 2025, Yoon Suk Yeol's pet ownership increased to six dogs and five cats.

2025: Minimum Wage Set at 10,030 Won per Hour

In 2025, the minimum wage was set at 10,030 won per hour, leading to protests from some labor representatives who felt the increase rate was too low.

2025: Increase in Medical School Enrollment Quota

Yoon Suk Yeol announced that the medical student enrollment quota would be increased from 3,058 to 5,058 students per academic year from 2025 onward.

January 2, 2026: Extension of Yoon Suk Yeol's Detention

On January 2, 2026, the Seoul Central District Court issued a fresh arrest warrant for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, extending his detention over allegations tied to drone deployments toward North Korea in October 2025 and his attempted imposition of martial law in December 2024.

January 2026: Prosecution Seeks Death Penalty

On 13 January 2026, the prosecution sought the death penalty for Yoon.

January 2026: Conviction and Imprisonment Sentence

On 16 January 2026, Yoon was convicted in a related trial and sentenced to five years' imprisonment on charges of abuse of power, obstruction of justice and falsification of official documents related to his failed martial law bid in 2024.

January 2026: Kim Keon Hee sentenced to prison for corruption

On 28 January 2026, Seoul Central District Court sentenced Kim Keon Hee, Yoon's wife, to 20 months in prison for corruption, for receiving luxury gifts like a Graff diamond necklace and a Chanel bag from the Unification Church in return for promises of business favors.

January 18, 2026: Detention Order Extension

On January 18, 2026, Yoon Suk Yeol's detention order, which was due to expire, was extended by up to six months.

February 2026: Conviction for Insurrection

On 19 February 2026, Yoon was convicted of leading an insurrection, and sentenced to life imprisonment.

2026: National Fiscal Management Plan

In <2022-2026 National Fiscal Management Plan>, Yoon Suk Yeol government considered that the national debt increased rapidly due to the expanded fiscal management of the previous government.