South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s election fraud claims fuel protests, with his supporters rallying behind conspiracy theories despite unsubstantiated allegations.
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| Yoon Suk Yeol’s claims of rigged elections and martial law spark political unrest in South Korea, with supporters rallying against alleged corruption. Image/ Illustration: ChicHue |
Seoul, South Korea — January 17, 2025:
Thousands of protesters have gathered in Seoul to rally behind impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, waving flags and demanding protection for their embattled conservative hero. Many of the demonstrators are fueled by right-wing YouTube conspiracy theories that accuse the opposition of rigging elections to secure a legislative majority and plot the removal of a patriotic leader.
The protests, which have taken place in the frigid January weather, reflect growing support for Yoon’s defiant stance, despite his ongoing criminal investigation over potential rebellion charges. Many of the signs and slogans at the rallies echo claims about election fraud, with some protesters calling for martial law to investigate the alleged rigging. The “Stop the Steal” slogans, reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol attack in January 2021, have also appeared.
Yoon has increasingly relied on these conspiracy theories, amplified by conservative YouTube channels, to discredit election officials and justify his controversial decisions, including the imposition of martial law in December 2023. His supporters, including key figures in his People Power Party (PPP), have openly defended the use of emergency powers to investigate alleged election vulnerabilities.
While the claims of election fraud remain unsubstantiated, Yoon’s rhetoric and actions, including his martial law declaration and claims about election manipulation, have sparked widespread concern about the future of South Korea's democracy. Critics warn that these conspiracy theories undermine public trust in elections and could lead to further political instability.
As Yoon’s impeachment proceedings continue, the nation remains divided, with growing fears that the use of fabricated claims to justify political actions could have lasting effects on the credibility of future elections.