The fragile state of democracy in Korea: Martial law, division and an uncertain future

In-bum Chun

Commentaries and Op-eds December, 2024

Korea faces one of the gravest political crises in its modern history following President Yoon Suk Yeol‘s declaration of martial law on Dec. 3. What began as a shocking announcement has since unraveled into a web of revelations, political strife and public uncertainty. Ten days into this state of emergency, the nation stands at a crossroads, with its democratic institutions tested like never before.

A coup in disguise?

The evidence increasingly points to the martial law declaration being less about protecting the Republic and more about consolidating power. Yoon, alongside former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, appears to have orchestrated what I am calling a “palace coup.” This betrayal of democratic norms has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. While Yoon continues to justify his actions as necessary to “protect the Republic from criminals,” the mounting evidence suggests otherwise.

Public reaction has been mixed. Polls indicate that at least 10 percent of the population supports Yoon‘s actions — a minority, but a significant one. This group appears driven by either ideological alignment or belief in Yoon’s narrative of preserving national stability and distaste for the unilateral actions of the opposition party. However, the overwhelming majority of Koreans view these actions as a blatant overreach of power, and protests against martial law have swelled across the country.

Read the full piece at The Korea Times.

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