[News Analysis] Yoon's first 2 years marked by intense confrontations, lack of leadership


President Yoon Suk Yeol has faced significant challenges during his first two years in office, including political confrontations, public criticism of his communication style, and controversies surrounding his wife. These issues have overshadowed his policy initiatives and foreign affairs activities, leading to consistently low approval ratings. Despite his lack of experience in elected office prior to becoming president, Yoon has focused on foreign affairs, visiting numerous countries and engaging in formal meetings with foreign leaders. However, his approach has been criticized for neglecting domestic political problems and failing to engage in dialogue with political opponents. The resulting legislative gridlock has hindered efforts at reform, and Yoon now faces the prospect of continued opposition dominance in the National Assembly. Additionally, Yoon has encountered resistance from various quarters, including political opponents, new parties challenging his leadership, and conflicts with doctors and labor unions. The ruling bloc's agenda-setting has been criticized for lacking consistency and substance, raising questions about the conservatives' overall agenda. Despite these domestic challenges, Yoon is expected to maintain a steadfast foreign policy, particularly in mending ties with Japan. However, experts emphasize the need to address historical issues and prepare for potential external turbulence, such as the US presidential election and the possibility of a former President Donald Trump victory. Overall, President Yoon's leadership has been marked by domestic and foreign challenges, with his focus on foreign affairs drawing criticism for neglecting pressing domestic issues and failing to engage with political rivals. The upcoming dominance of the opposition in the National Assembly poses further obstacles to achieving domestic policy breakthroughs. Despite these challenges, Yoon is expected to remain committed to his foreign policy agenda, particularly in restoring ties with Japan, while also needing to address historical issues and prepare for potential external turbulence.


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