The imposition of Martial Law yesterday in South Korea, followed by strong protests and a parliamentary vote that led to its repeal just hours later, surprised many. South Korea is often viewed as a democratic stronghold in contrast to North Korea’s dictatorship. However, many forget that South Korea was ruled for decades by cruel and bloody dictators and military juntas! Even after democratization in the 1980s, many of its former presidents became embroiled in major corruption scandals.

Here’s a list of South Korea’s recent presidents and what happened to them:

1⃣ Roh Tae-woo (1988–1993): No scandals;
2⃣ Kim Young-sam (1993–1998): Oversaw the 1997 financial crisis that devastated South Korea;
3⃣ Kim Dae-jung (1998–2003): Considered the best president in South Korea’s history, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000;
4⃣ Roh Moo-hyun (2003–2008): Committed suicide in 2009 after a corruption investigation involving his family;
5⃣ Lee Myung-bak (2008–2013): Serving a 17-year sentence for accepting bribes;
6⃣ Park Geun-hye (2013–2017): Sentenced to 24 years for abuse of power and corruption;
7⃣ Moon Jae-in (2017–2022): No scandals;
8⃣ Yoon Suk-yeol (2022–present): Attempted coup, future uncertain.