End of 2019, End of Candlelight Revolution’s Hope
The Candlelight Revolution three years ago brought hope for South Korea's ailing democracy. Moon Jae-in, who came into power then, has dashed that expectation.
democracy
Remembering Gwangju
After reading a novel about the 1980 Gwangju Democratization Movement, the writer sets off to the city where it all unfolded in order to discover the event's meaning for himself.
Moonppa: A Troubled Start for the Moon Jae-in Presidency
It could just be that the rising temperatures summoned a high-pressure system and clean air, but even nature seemed to…
Where Are All the Women in South Korea’s Democracy Protests?
S. Korea's democratization is remembered through a few big names, mostly men. But there are many more who fought without being remembered.
Gwangju: the City of Democracy
Compared to Seoul, Busan or Gyeongju, Gwangju seems to have little to offer. But Gwangju, where "May 18" happened, is a beacon of democracy.
Gwanghwamun Democracy 2.0: Air Pollution Roundtables
Thousands of Seoulites gathered for roundtable discussions on Gwanghwamun Square. While cars drove past, citizens discussed the worsening air pollution.
The Triumph of Yearning
South Korea elected its new president, Moon Jae-in. He says this is the "triumph of yearning." His supporters are hopeful that Moon can bring about change.
After S Korea’s Presidential Race: What’s Next?
The historic 60-day presidential race is coming to a close on May 9. Who is most likely to become the president? What is next for South Korea?
The Price of Democracy
The candlelight rallies are often hailed as being a triumph of democracy in South Korea. How much did democracy cost, literally?
Impeach the Impeachment: Older Conservatives “Defend Democracy”
A growing number of conservatives are competing against the anti-Park Geun-hye protests by holding their own "Taegeukgi Rally" to "defend democracy."
South Korea’s Feudal Presidency: Ban Ki-moon Returns to Claim the Throne
Former UN chief Ban Ki-moon is in Korea, dutifully performing certain political rituals in a sign that presidency is still very much a feudal institution.
War of Words over the State of South Korea
I am of the opinion that South Korea’s current climate of repression will continue to worsen over the next two years in the run-up to the Dec. 2017 presidential election. But I hope that this government will choose to continue its course of constructive engagement with the media and writers of all stripes.