I don’t usually include dates on my blog posts. I hope my writing can resonate whenever it’s read, untethered from a specific moment in time. But today, I’m making an exception—because this story is about a moment. A timely one, unfolding right now in South Korea.
For the record, today is December 18, 2024.
As I wrote in my blog’s introduction, I’m Korean-American. I was born and raised in Korea, but I’ve now spent far more of my life outside it. And yet, my identity as a Korean remains deeply rooted—Korea is always with me, wherever I go.
So, as the year comes to a close, I want to share a story of resilience, creativity, and solidarity from the country I hold so close to my heart.
Why South Korea Impeached Its President
President Yoon Suk-yeol has been impeached following a series of critical failures and abuses of power. The most shocking of these was his attempt to declare martial law, a move that could have endangered South Korea’s democracy and its people. When this revelation came to light, it sparked outrage across the nation.
But Yoon’s presidency had already been marred by a long list of grievances: deepening societal divides, particularly by exploiting gender tensions for political gain, widespread mismanagement, and policies that prioritized power over public welfare. For many, Yoon’s leadership felt like a betrayal of the very citizens he was elected to serve.
In response, South Koreans did what they have always done in moments of crisis: they rose together—peacefully, powerfully, and with unmistakable resolve.
From Candlelight to Light Sticks
In 2016, South Koreans held candles, igniting what became known as the Candlelight Protests—a peaceful, determined movement that led to the impeachment of a sitting president. In 2024, history repeats itself, but this time the streets glow with light sticks.
If candlelight symbolized unwavering passion and solidarity, light sticks feel like their modern evolution—bolder, brighter, and undeniably innovative.
Light sticks, once tools of love and support for K-pop idols, have become symbols of devotion and protection. Seeing them brought to the streets—held high as symbols of resilience, hope, and collective power—feels deeply meaningful. It’s as if the energy fans pour into defending their favorite artists is now being channeled into defending their nation.
The vibrant colors and diverse designs of the light sticks beautifully reflect the essence of democracy itself: people from all walks of life, all backgrounds, uniting for a shared purpose. If the candlelight protests were groundbreaking, this movement feels like a creative and colorful evolution.
And finally, it happened: South Korea has impeached its president once again.
President Yoon Suk-yeol’s Impeachment Motion Passed in the National Assembly!
Yoon is now suspended from his duties.
While the Constitutional Court still needs to confirm the impeachment, this first step is monumental.
Young Women Leading the Way
One of the most inspiring and defining aspects of this movement is the role of young women. Women in their 20s made up the largest group of participants—18.9%—followed by men in their 50s (13.6%) and women in their 30s (10.8%).
But these women didn’t just show up—they showed up for each other.
A viral photo captured this spirit perfectly: a women’s restroom near the National Assembly station, where protesters gathered, was stocked with hand warmers, sanitary pads, snacks, masks, and other essentials—freely available for anyone who needed them. It was a quiet yet powerful act of care, solidarity, and mutual support.In a country where gender tensions have been deliberately exacerbated, this moment feels especially significant. The now-impeached president leaned heavily on misogynistic rhetoric, framing young men as victims of systemic disadvantages. This strategy earned him significant support from men in their 20s, contributing to his election.
And yet, in the face of these divides, young women chose resilience over resentment, unity over division, and care over anger. They are leading this movement with strength, compassion, and grace—reminding us all what democracy can look like when powered by love, solidarity, and the determination to build something better.
Source: https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202412121443001
On a Personal Note
As this year wraps up, I’m heading off on a family trip, committing to being fully present during the holidays and my daughter’s winter break.
Starting next year, I plan to share a wider range of stories here, but I’ll be focusing more on Korea—the country I carry in my heart, wherever I go.
Is there such a thing as a simple nation? Probably not, but Korea takes complexity to another level. It’s a country full of contradictions—overflowing with joy and energy, yet deeply shaped by sorrow and struggle. It’s a place where tradition and modernity collide daily, where rapid progress often overshadows reflection, and where collectivism exists alongside fierce individual ambition. Korea is simultaneously proud and self-critical, communal yet competitive, resilient yet fragile.
In my writing, I’ll explore both the light and shadows of Korean society. Beyond its achievements and strengths, I want to reflect on its mistakes and struggles—because there’s as much to learn from what goes wrong as from what goes right. Korea, with all its beauty, contradictions, and complexity, is a country worth understanding.
I may not be the fastest writer, but I promise to share thoughtfully—with care, curiosity, and reflection.
Wishing you all a happy, warm, and restful holiday season! See you in the new year. 😊
