South Korea’s Far-Right Surge: A Threat To Democracy And Social Cohesion – OpEd

In recent years South Korea has experienced a significant rise in far-right political movements, culminating in a series of controversial events that have deeply polarized the nation. F

rom President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law to violent protests by far-right supporters these developments are part of a broader global trend of increasing right-wing populism. This phenomenon warrants an in-depth analysis of the driving factors behind the right’s ascent, the challenges posed to the country’s democratic institutions, and its broader implications for political stability.

The rise of far-right movements in South Korea is rooted in a combination of economic insecurity, generational divides, and the influence of global right-wing populism. These factors have posed significant challenges to the nation’s democracy and social cohesion.

South Korea’s economic development over the few past decades has been accompanied by increasing inequality and growing a sense of economic insecurity among its citizens. While the country has achieved remarkable progress in terms of industrialization and technological innovation these achievements have not been evenly distributed across society.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing disparities, leaving small and businesses the working class to bear the brunt of the economic downturn. Rising housing prices, stagnant wages, and precarious job markets have fuelled widespread discontent and a sense of disenfranchisement. Far-right groups have capitalized on this discontent by promising to restore economic stability through protectionist and nationalist policies, appealing to those who feel left behind by the current system.

These economic challenges have created an opportunity for far-right narratives that often blame immigrants, progressive policies, or foreign influence for the nation’s problems. The rise of the far right is also deeply intertwined with generational and cultural divides within South Korean society. Older generations who lived through the country’s rapid industrialization and its authoritarian past tend to hold more conservative views and are more receptive to nationalist rhetoric. They often view progressive movements as a threat to traditional values and the national identity they worked to build.

In contrast, younger generations while generally more progressive in their outlook face significant economic challenges such as unemployment and high living costs which have hindered their ability to achieve independence and financial and long-term stability. This generational divide has been exploited by far-right leaders who frame progressive initiatives as destabilizing and align with the interests of older more conservative citizens. These cultural and generational tensions have further fueled polarization making it difficult for South Korea to achieve social and political consensus. 

The influence of global right-wing populism has also played a pivotal role in shaping South Korea’s far-right movements. The success of leaders like Donald Trump in the United States and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil has inspired South Korean far-right figures to adopt similar strategies and rhetoric. The proliferation of social media platforms and alternative media channels has provided these groups with powerful tools to disseminate their messages. Far-right YouTubers online and communities have conspiracy-spread propaganda theories and claims of fraud elections fostering distrust in mainstream institutions and further polarizing the population. This digital ecosystem has allowed far-right movements to gain a foothold in South Korea amplifying their influence and making them a formidable force in the country’s political landscape. 

The rise of the far right poses significant challenges to South Korea’s democratic institutions. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law in December 2024 citing alleged state anti-activities marked a dangerous departure from democratic norms. Although the martial law declaration was quickly nullified it exposed the fragility of democratic checks and balances in the face of political extremism. The subsequent impeachment and arrest of Yoon on charges of insurrection highlighted the political instability fueled by far-right influence. These events have raised serious concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the ability of South Korea’s institutions to withstand the pressures of political polarization.

Political polarization and social unrest have further compounded the challenges posed by the far right. The violent protests of Yoon’s supporters including storming of the Seoul Western District Court in January 2025 drew comparisons to the January 6 Capitol riots in the United States. Such incidents undermine the public’s trust in the rule of law and highlight the dangers of radicalization among certain segments of the population. The deepening polarization makes increasingly it difficult for political leaders to find common ground and address pressing national issues. This environment of distrust and division poses a serious threat to South Korea’s ability to function as a cohesive and stable democracy.

The far right’s emphasis on nationalist and exclusionary narratives has also undermined efforts to promote social cohesion in South Korea. Immigrants and minority groups have become convenient scapegoats for the country’s economic and social leading challenges to increased discrimination and xenophobia. This backlash against diversity threatens to derail South Korea’s progress toward becoming a more inclusive and globally connected society. Moreover the targeting of vulnerable groups only not violates the principles of equality and justice but also hampers the country’s ability to address its demographic challenges such as an aging population and declining birth rates which require the integration of immigrants into the workforce and society.

The rise of the far right in South Korea reflects a complex of interplay economic insecurity generational divides and global political trends. While far-right movements have successfully tapped into widespread discontent fears and impact on South Korea’s democracy and social cohesion have been deeply troubling. The declaration of martial law violent protests and dissemination of conspiracy theories underscore the significant challenges posed by these movements. Addressing these requires issues a multifaceted approach that includes promoting economic equity fostering dialogue and strengthening democratic institutions. South Korea must also counter the spread of far-propaganda right promoting media literacy and supporting independent journalism. Ultimately the country’s ability to navigate challenges will be critical in determining its political and social trajectory in the years to come.

The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own.

                                                     Reference

• Eatwell, Roger, and Matthew Goodwin. National Populism: The Revolt Against Liberal Democracy. Pelican Books, 2018.
•  Kim, Byung-Kook, and Ezra F. Vogel (Eds.). The Park Chung Hee Era: The Transformation of South Korea. Harvard University Press, 2011.
•  Mudde, Cas. The Far Right Today. Polity Press, 2019.