Overview
Park Geun-hye (born February 2, 1952) is a South Korean politician who served as the 18th President of South Korea from 2013 to 2017. She was the first female president and the first second-generation president in South Korean history. She is the daughter of former President Park Chung-hee. She was impeached in 2017 over the influence-peddling scandal and was removed from office.
Basic Information
| Name | Park Geun-hye (박근혜) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 2, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Daegu, South Korea |
| Education | Sogang University, Electronic Engineering |
| Party | Saenuri Party (now People Power Party) |
| Term | February 25, 2013 – March 10, 2017 |
| Father | Park Chung-hee (5th-9th President) |
Background
Park was born in Daegu as the eldest daughter of Army Colonel Park Chung-hee and Yuk Young-soo. She graduated from Sogang University in 1974 and went to study at Grenoble University in France. However, she returned to Korea after her mother was assassinated in 1974 and served as acting First Lady.
Political Career
National Assembly Member
She entered politics in 1998, winning a by-election for the 15th National Assembly. She served as a member of the 15th through 19th National Assembly and held positions including party leader of the Grand National Party.
Presidential Election
In 2012, she won the presidential election against Moon Jae-in of the Democratic United Party, becoming South Koreas first female president.
Impeachment
Influence-Peddling Scandal
In 2016, allegations emerged that Choi Soon-sil, a private citizen, had been involved in state affairs. Massive candlelight protests were held nationwide demanding her resignation.
Impeachment Process
- December 9, 2016: Impeachment motion passed by National Assembly
- March 10, 2017: Constitutional Court unanimously upheld impeachment (removal)
- March 21, 2017: Summoned by prosecutors
- March 31, 2017: Arrested and detained at Seoul Detention Center
Pardon
She was pardoned by President Moon Jae-in on December 24, 2021, after serving 4 years and 9 months in prison, primarily due to her deteriorating health. She currently resides in Daegu.
Historical Significance
Park was South Koreas first female president and the first sitting president to be removed by impeachment.