South Korea’s President Acknowledges His Party’s Shortcomings

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol held a rare press conference on Thursday, admitting shortcomings following his party’s recent electoral defeat and laying out ideas on subjects ranging from the country’s low birthrate to the Russia and Ukraine war.

The president’s first press conference in over two years followed his party’s defeat in legislative elections last month.

Regarding Ukraine, Yoon vowed to retain strong ties with Kyiv while maintaining a smooth relationship with Russia, rejecting direct weapons supplies and assuring the media that it was his firm stance not to supply lethal arms to warring countries.

On South Korea’s birthrate, which is one of the lowest in the world, he announced intentions to establish a ministry to address the issue, which he termed a ‘national emergency’.

Yoon’s party’s defeat in the April 10 legislative elections has sparked calls for him to modify his policy direction and leadership style, as his approval ratings remain less than halfway through his five-year term.

Yoon stated that he has pondered a lot over what have been the shortcomings of his government.

“Communication to explain policy drives and the extent of change people have felt has fallen short”, Yoon added.

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