SEOUL: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a public apology on Thursday in response to controversies involving his wife, First Lady Kim Keon-hee. The president also expressed his opposition to a proposed bill by the main opposition Democratic Party (DP), which aims to initiate a special counsel investigation into the allegations surrounding the first lady. According to Anadolu Agency, President Yoon addressed the nation through a televised speech, acknowledging the criticisms leveled against Kim. The first lady has been under scrutiny for accepting a luxury handbag from a Korean American pastor, alleged participation in a stock manipulation scheme, and meddling in government affairs. "I believe the role of the president is not to make excuses. All of this is due to my own shortcomings and lack of virtue," Yoon stated, extending a "heartfelt apology" to the public. Further complicating matters, Kim has been accused of influencing the candidate nominations of the ruling People Power Party ahead of las t April's general elections. However, prosecutors decided against indicting her in connection with the alleged stock manipulation scheme involving Deutsch Motors Inc., a BMW dealer, stating that she was unaware of her accounts being used for such activities. President Yoon admitted, "She should have conducted herself with greater caution, and the fact that she has caused concern to the public is unquestionably wrong," while condemning the opposition's bill for a special counsel as "unconstitutional" and "political propaganda." In addition to addressing domestic issues, President Yoon commented on North Korea's alleged deployment of soldiers to Russia, suggesting a review of South Korea's arms support policy to Ukraine. South Korea, supported by the US and NATO, claims that Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to Russia. "Depending on the level of North Korean involvement, we will gradually adjust our support strategy in phases," Yoon explained, indicating that South Korea might consider providing weapons i n the future.