Brief
Protest Cultures of South Korea
The History and Evolution of South Korea's Unique Protest Culture
On December 3, 2024, martial law was declared in South Korea and was later lifted. This led many people with different opinions to go out to the streets to protest. During the impeachment support protests, a unique protest culture emerged. Instead of the candles that were used during the impeachment of former president Park Geun-Hye, people used idol light sticks that are commonly used in K-POP idol events. South Korea's protest culture has been distinctive compared to other countries, evolving over time.
The military dictatorship period was when the fundamental structure of South Korea's protest culture was formed. During this time, protests were a form of resistance by citizens demanding democracy and human rights. A notable example was the Gwangju Democratic Uprising in 1980. It became a symbol of civilian resistance against the military government. Citizens, mainly students, workers, and human rights activists, organized peaceful protests against the oppressive military regime. However, the military and police responded with brutal crackdowns. Protesters sang folk songs or carried signs as they marched peacefully, expressing their collective opposition to military violence.
During the dictatorship period, protesters were violently suppressed by riot control units, like the Baekgoldan, with tear gas and military equipment used to disperse the crowds. In response, protesters wore gas masks or used wet towels to counteract the effects of tear gas and sometimes held guerrilla-style protests, fleeing into narrow streets to avoid suppression. University campuses became the center of many of these protests. Tragic events, such as the death of Park Jong-Chul during torture, showed just how dangerous and intense these protests were. Despite the violence from the military, many citizens and students did not lose hope for democratization.
The candlelight protests from 2016 to 2017, calling for the impeachment of former president Park Geun-hye, opened a new chapter in South Korea's protest culture. These protests were peaceful yet developed uniquely. Participants turned the protests into festive gatherings with performances, songs, and speeches. People held candles, expressing solidarity and unity. Notably, the appearance of flags from virtual groups was an important feature of these protests. The flags, with various slogans and images, conveyed the protest's messages. They emphasized political neutrality while clearly expressing the group's views.
After the declaration of martial law in 2024, South Korea's protest culture showed another change. The candles used in previous impeachment support protests were replaced by LED candles, which were portable and safer. These candles eventually evolved into idol light sticks, widely used by K-POP idol fans. These light sticks, which could adjust brightness and color, were used effectively in protests, offering a new symbol for the movement.
In addition, social media greatly changed the nature of protests. Information about protests spreads quickly through social media and online communities, allowing participants to check updates about protest locations and times. The advancement of technology strengthened unity among demonstrators and made it easier for more citizens to join.
South Korea's protest culture has evolved according to the times and needs. The changes in protests, from the sacrifices and resistance during the military dictatorship to the different rallies during Park Geun-hye's impeachment. Also, the new forms of protest after the 2024 martial law announcement show how protests have been used in South Korean society. In the future, protest culture will continue to evolve with social changes and technological advancements.