Yoon's industrial projects at risk amid political crisis

Martial law turmoil casts doubt on the initiatives, country's global trade strategy

South Korea's political crisis, triggered by President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial law declaration, is casting doubt on several of his administration's cornerstone industrial projects and the country's ability to navigate trade challenges.

The initiatives facing increased uncertainty include a multibillion-dollar nuclear power deal in the Czech Republic and the Donghae deep-water gas field development.

The instability comes at a critical moment for South Korea, as shifting global dynamics - including Donald Trump's return to the US presidency - demand clear and decisive leadership.

CZECH NUCLEAR POWER PLANT PROJECT FACES UNCERTAINTY When President Yoon took office, one of his top priorities was revitalising the nation's nuclear power industry.

The sector had been significantly weakened under former president Moon Jae-in's administration, which pushed a strong anti-nuclear policy.

Mr Yoon's administration reversed course, restarting halted domestic reactor construction projects and extending the operation of ageing plants.

On the international front, Mr Yoon sought to position South Korea as a global leader in nuclear power. The government secured its spot as the preferred bidder for a 24 trillion won (S$22.66 billion) nuclear power plant project in the Czech Republic, with plans to export a total of 10 nuclear reactors by 2030.

Mr Yoon himself travelled to the Czech Republic to personally promote South Korea's nuclear technology and reliability, marking the deal as a cornerstone of his economic vision.