A month-long political meltdown has thrown South Korean politics into turmoil, with impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly avoiding arrest on Friday. The crisis has exposed the country’s deepening polarization between conservative and liberal parties, echoing the fears of a repressive past dictatorship.
President Yoon declared martial law in December, citing an “insurgency” by his opposition party. However, this move was widely unpopular and sparked mass protests calling for his ouster. The situation took a dramatic turn on Friday when officials attempted to arrest him but were blocked by his security detail and military personnel.
Yoon’s actions have been criticized as exceeding his authority, sparking fears of a return to the repressive regime that ended in the 1980s following mass demonstrations demanding democracy. His impeachment is ongoing, with the Constitutional Court set to decide on its validity. The arrest warrant remains valid until Monday, raising concerns about Yoon’s future.
Experts point to the underlying tension in South Korea’s politics, defined by a high level of polarization between conservative and liberal parties. Both sides claim they are protecting democracy, but conservatives prioritize maintaining government stability over preserving democratic principles.
“This is not just about democracy; it’s about making sure that no one threatens the state,” said Joan Cho, a professor of Korean politics at Wesleyan University. The polarization has fueled distrust in the government, with experts warning there is no clear path for reform or a middle ground for both sides to work together.
The situation highlights the need for a renewed focus on democratic principles and the importance of finding common ground between opposing parties. As South Korea’s politics continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how this polarized landscape will impact the country’s future.
Source: https://www.vox.com/world-politics/393403/korea-politics-yoon-park-impeachment-moon-insurrection-protest