Yoon’s Birthday Gala Sparks Controversy Over Security Involvement

In an event that has captured the attention of South Korean media, a birthday celebration for President Yoon Suk-yeol took place under surprising circumstances. Originally scheduled for December 17 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Presidential Security Service (PPP), the event was rescheduled to coincide with President Yoon's birthday. Organized by PPP deputy chief Kim Sung-hoon, the gala was attended by military personnel and police officers who were ordered to participate in the festivities.

The gathering unfolded a day later than initially planned, transforming from a ceremonial occasion to a personal celebration. The event saw military personnel singing paeans to President Yoon, using tweaked lyrics of popular hits. This performance, which included saluting President Yoon and first lady Kim Keon-hee, was not a spontaneous act. Former defence minister Kim Yong-hyun had instructed dozens of service members to partake in the entertainment show, for which they practiced rigorously over two months.

This elaborate performance has drawn scrutiny due to the involvement of police officers responsible for presidential security duties. Their participation was reportedly mandatory, as they were ordered to join the birthday gala. The decision to involve security personnel in such a manner raises questions about the use of official resources for personal celebrations.

The agency's activities remain classified, according to the PPP, which has only added to the intrigue surrounding the event. The presence of military personnel in a setting meant for personal celebration has sparked a debate on the appropriate use of state resources. The event's organization by a high-ranking official within the PPP further amplifies these concerns.

Korean media have reported extensively on the event, highlighting the unusual nature of the celebration and the lengths to which it was orchestrated. The rescheduling of an official anniversary to align with a personal milestone suggests a blurring of lines between public duty and private affairs.