In both Korea and the United States, a critical assessment of effective governance is paramount. Understanding which strategies succeed and which falter is essential for strengthening democratic principles.
Examining Four Decades of South Korean Democracy
Recently, the Center for Korean Studies at the University of Hawaiʻi hosted a significant international conference, “Looking Back on 40 Years of South Korean Democracy: Discontents and Challenges.” The event brought together prominent scholars from around the globe to analyze the nation’s democratic journey. Organized by Myungji Yang, a Sociology Professor, and supported by the Center, led by Young-a Park and other UH faculty, the conference fostered a comprehensive understanding of democracy through historical, political, economic, and cultural lenses.
This gathering holds particular relevance for Hawaiʻi, the broader United States, and the entire Asia-Pacific region. The declaration of martial law in December 2024 by former president Yoon Suk Yeol, while a challenge to Korea’s democratic advancements, simultaneously presented an opportunity to evaluate the enduring strength of its democratic institutions. The conference aimed to provide insights into navigating such complex situations.
Political Turmoil and Legal Consequences
The actions of former president Yoon Suk Yeol triggered a constitutional crisis. He faced impeachment, a subsequent trial, and ultimately, a guilty verdict on charges including insurrection, obstruction of justice, falsifying documents, and violations of campaign finance laws. Further indictments followed in January 2025, alleging that Yoon authorized the deployment of military and police forces to impede lawmakers attempting to halt his declaration of martial law.
Beyond the legal proceedings, Yoon reportedly ordered the arrest of opposition figures and encouraged attacks on the judiciary and government institutions. While parallels exist between “Yoonism” and populist movements like Trumpism, it’s crucial to acknowledge the complexities of comparing democratic trajectories across different contexts.
Geopolitical Challenges and Regional Security
The challenges of maintaining democracy are amplified by a global shift towards authoritarianism and populism, a reality shared by both Korea and the United States. Concerns extend beyond domestic political trust to encompass the rule of law and the balance of power between governmental branches. Managing escalating security threats and navigating intricate geopolitical relationships, including treaties and trade agreements, are further complicated by the growing influence of multinational corporations and technological advancements.
Located in Hawaiʻi, home to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the largest and oldest unified military command, the region is experiencing heightened tensions. The strengthening alliances between North Korea, Russia, and China, coupled with ongoing security concerns in Taiwan, Iran, India, Pakistan, and the Korean peninsula, contribute to a volatile landscape. North Korea’s support for Russia in Ukraine, its cyber warfare capabilities, and its development of nuclear and ballistic missiles pose significant risks.
The Rise of Alternative Models and Democratic Values
China increasingly presents itself as a democratic alternative to the United States, emphasizing its “Whole Process People’s Democracy” integrated with the Chinese Communist Party. This model incorporates elections, consultations, and deliberative processes to inform policy implementation and collective action.
China’s emphasis on technical expertise and hierarchical decision-making is contrasted with the core tenets of democracy – free and fair elections, a free press, the rule of law, and open debate. While China highlights perceived shortcomings in American democracy, such as the January 6th Capitol attack, a critical evaluation of its own system remains essential. Ultimately, democracy, despite its perceived inefficiencies, centers on the principle of popular rule and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
