An Update and Reflection on the political turmoil in South Korea since the December 3 Martial Law Declaration

SunDo Hyun (Meadow Lake, SK) January 7, 2025

I was shocked and couldn’t believe when I heard the news that the President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea declared martial law late at night on December 3, 2024 (KST). Watching scenes of the military and police entering the National Assembly and confronting citizens on the street left me with indescribable shock and fear, praying with heavy hearts. At the same time, I spoke to myself: “Now the current president’s time is finally coming to an end!” I truly believed that because I have trust in the Korean people’s unwavering commitment to democracy and justice and believe in the divine guidance leading us in the right direction in history.

Thankfully, the unconstitutional martial law was lifted within several hours through swift resolution by the National Assembly, despite attempts by military and security forces to prevent the session.

In the following days, several high-ranking officials resigned or were impeached due to their involvement in the martial law declaration:

• December 5: Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigned.
• December 7: President Yoon issued a public apology for declaring martial law. An impeachment vote against him failed after a boycott by ruling party members.
• December 8: Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun was arrested on charges related to the martial law declaration. Interior Minister Lee Sang-min resigned following an impeachment motion against him.
• December 9: President Yoon was barred from leaving the country as part of ongoing investigations.
• December 11: National Police Commissioner Cho Ji-ho and Seoul Metropolitan Police Chief Kim Bong-sik were arrested on charges of insurrection related to the martial law declaration.
• December 14: The National Assembly voted to impeach President Yoon.
• December 27: Acting President Han Duck-soo was impeached by the National Assembly for obstructing investigations and colluding with President Yoon regarding the martial law declaration.

In the midst of political turmoil, the Korean people’s hearts were heavily broken again by a tragic aviation disaster on December 29, when Jeju Air Flight 2216 crashed at Muan International Airport, resulting in the deaths of 179 people. I appreciate that even in this tragedy, the local and national government systems have been working decently in response and that people from across the country have supported the families of the victims in various ways.

On December 31, the Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant for President Yoon on charges related to his martial law declaration, marking the first time a sitting South Korean president faced such a warrant. However, as of January 6, 2025, President Yoon remains inside the presidential compound, resisting detention. Investigators’ attempts to arrest him have been hindered by presidential security, leading to clashes. The Constitutional Court is deliberating on whether to formally remove Yoon from office or reinstate him.

The situation has led to significant political turmoil in South Korea, with public opinion deeply divided and ongoing protests from both supporters and opponents of President Yoon. However, what has caught my attention is the creativity and resilience of the Korean people, blending culture, humor, and solidarity into their demonstrations and actions in defending democratic values during this challenging time. Here are some remarkable examples of their innovative protest methods:

• Waving K-pop Light Sticks: Protesters have been using brightly colored glow sticks to illuminate rallies, creating a vibrant and peaceful atmosphere even during late-night protests. This method is inspired by K-pop fan culture, where glow sticks are commonly used at concerts. It symbolizes unity and adds a uplifting, celebratory tone to the gatherings, in contrast to the seriousness of the political crisis.

• Singing Parody Songs: Demonstrators have rewritten popular K-pop songs and Christmas carols to include satirical and critical lyrics about President Yoon and his administration. These performances add a humorous and engaging element to the protests, making them more accessible and enjoyable for participants of all ages.
  



• Prepaid Food and Hot Drinks: In a show of solidarity, fellow Koreans have prepaid for food trucks and vendors near protest sites, ensuring that demonstrators stay warm and nourished during the winter protests. This communal spirit reflects the strong sense of solidarity among participants, even those who cannot physically join the protests. Volunteers also distribute snacks and hot drinks, creating a supportive environment.
• “Kisses Protesters” in Silver Emergency Blankets: Protesters have put on silver emergency blankets, earning the nicknamed “kisses protesters” due to their resemblance to Hershey’s Kisses chocolate wrappers. These blankets help them endure freezing temperatures during snowy nights. The reflective material also makes a striking visual statement, symbolizing resilience and the determination to stand ground despite harsh conditions.

South Korea has a long history of grassroots movements that have played a critical role in shaping its democracy, often referred to as “people power.” I see the ongoing protests against President Yoon’s martial law declaration as a continuation of this legacy, showcasing the democratic resilience and hope of the Korean people. Somebody mentioned this quote on social media while witnessing the recent protests: “Korean people bring out bright things when the country falls into darkness.” I find it a powerful description of the cultural and historical ethos of South Korea, where moments of crisis often spark extraordinary acts of unity, creativity, and determination among the people.

As a member of the Korean diaspora living in Canada, I will continue praying for the people in South Korea. May the love of our Creator God, who does not leave us in suffering and despair but remembers us in times of crisis; the grace of Jesus Christ, who shines light in the darkest nights and leads us forward; and the presence of the Holy Spirit, who gives us courage and strength to uphold democracy and build communities of justice and peace, be with us all.