Thousands of South Koreans are rallying in support of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, as conspiracy theories fuel a deep political divide. Many believe the opposition has illegitimately usurped power, portraying their struggle as a battle against foreign influence.
South Korea's Political Schism: Yoon's Supporters Rally Amidst Crisis
South Korea's Political Schism: Yoon's Supporters Rally Amidst Crisis
Amid uproar surrounding martial law allegations, supporters of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol gather in defense of his administration, highlighting veins of conspiracy and national loyalty.
Every day for the past week, 72-year-old Kim Kwon-seop has joined a multitude of supporters near the home of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, recently impeached amid allegations of insurrection linked to his brief declaration of martial law. Their collective presence aims to thwart prosecutors seeking Yoon's detention on these charges. The supporters passionately argue that the true insurrection lies with the opposition, which they accuse of misusing its majority in the Assembly to obstruct Yoon's political efforts. They claim that the parliamentary majority resulted from a rigged election in April, leading them to view defending Yoon as defending South Korea against perceived internal threats.
Despite common dismissal of such beliefs as mere online sensationalism propagated by right-wing YouTube commentators and social media platforms, the deeply polarized political landscape of South Korea has allowed these narratives to gain traction. Individuals like Kim are fueled by fervent loyalty, ready to sacrifice their safety for their beliefs. "When I leave home for this rally every day, I tell my wife that this may be the last time she sees me alive," Kim expressed. "This is not just about protecting President Yoon. It’s about saving my country for my descendants."
The fervor of Yoon's supporters echoes movements seen elsewhere, comparable to the "Make America Great Again" advocates of Donald Trump. Known as the "taegeukgi budae," this group comprises mainly older, churchgoing South Koreans who bring an air of patriotic zeal to their gatherings. Flags of South Korea and the United States fly high, reflecting their strong support for the alliance with Washington, and fervent denunciations of left-wing politicians who they view as a threat to national sovereignty.
Supporters have camped out for days on the pavements surrounding Yoon's residence, expressing their commitment to protect him from any attempts at detainment or arrest, insisting that this chapter in South Korea's political history remains fraught with uncertainty and division.
