Continued Economic Growth and Calls for Democratisation
In the late 1970s, following the death of President Park Chung-hee, South Korea experienced a tumultuous political climate marked by a desire for democratization. Chun Doo-hwan staged a military coup, enforcing martial law to suppress protests demanding democracy. Notable was the Gwangju Democratisation Movement, where citizens rallied for their rights, facing violent repression.
Despite the political upheaval, Chun's government achieved impressive economic growth, increasing from 1.7% in 1980 to 13.2% by 1983, largely due to international economic conditions. The better standard of living raised citizens' political awareness, leading to calls for direct presidential elections.
In May 1987, the administration faced backlash for ignoring widespread public outrage over a student's death under suspicious circumstances. This spurred a nationwide struggle culminating in the June Democracy Movement. Ultimately, the Chun administration was forced to amend the constitution for direct presidential elections, initiating a new democratic chapter.
Following these developments, South Korea continued on a path of democratization, with the election of the civilian leader Kim Young-sam in 1992 and peaceful transitions of power.
The evolution of democracy in Korea, shaped by economic prosperity, showcases how citizen engagement can foster effective political change.