Competing Demonstrations in Seoul on National Liberation Day

Today, Seoul witnessed demonstrations from both leftist and rightist groups, coinciding with National Liberation Day.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of Japan’s rule over Korea and the 77th anniversary of Korea’s establishment.

Large crowds gathered, especially following Lee Jae-myung’s recent victory in the SNAP presidential election on June 3rd. The election was marred by widespread irregularities and aimed to replace Yun Sak Yeol, who was ousted after a brief term and a declaration of martial law in early December.

The gatherings reflected Lee’s early popularity as a figure who has drawn significant division.

Following the protests, Lee is reportedly scheduled to visit Washington, especially with a significant meeting at the White House with President Donald Trump on August 25, which may be a critical moment in U.S.-South Korea relations.

Lee’s anti-American stance raises questions about future treaty relations between the two nations, as well as the stability of Korean democracy, which he seems to challenge under the guise of Democratic governance.

While publicly engaging with the U.S., Lee appears to be undermining the foundational partnership formed in 1953, shortly after the Korean War armistice.

During his campaign for the Democratic Party presidential nomination in July 2021, Lee referred to American troops in Korea as the U.S. occupation army, even alleging the U.S. supported Japan’s colonial rule in Korea.

Lee leads the leftist Minju party, which has maintained ties with Washington while also fostering connections with Beijing and Pyongyang.

As president, Lee seems to be prioritizing reducing ties with the U.S., including significantly cutting back on joint military drills. Reports indicate these reductions are largely a response to Lee’s pressure, particularly in light of North Korea’s criticism of the drills.

On August 7, a unification ministry official confirmed to the media, the exercises had been adjusted due to North Korea’s potential response.

Earlier, on July 21st, Lee’s government faced backlash for a raid on Osan Air Force Base, a joint facility where U.S. and South Korean forces operate. This operation raised significant concerns as it occurred without prior notice to the U.S. military, violating existing agreements and leading to claims of compromised security.

Tara Oh, a former U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel who served at Osan, remarked that access to sensitive information should never have been granted.

This incident preceded the cancellation of high-level discussions between Washington and Seoul. Among the meetings disrupted was one involving the Secretary of State and South Korea’s national security adviser, alongside another impactful “2+2” Trade Conference.

President Lee’s administration is also under scrutiny for attacks on South Korean democratic institutions. He actively participated in efforts to disrupt Yoon’s government with tactics that involved extreme political moves.Specifically, Lee confronted Yoon’s declaration of martial law initiated in December 2023.

Amidst the growing political tension, Yoon was imprisoned based on dubious charges of rebellion, which many view as unfounded.

“Lee and his party crafted a false narrative,” stated Morse Tan, a former U.S. ambassador. There are serious concerns regarding Yoon’s conditions in custody; reports indicate he is enduring harsh treatment, raising fears for his health, although the ruling party seems indifferent to this.

“Even if he lives, he must still be locked up,” reflected Kim Byung-ki, the Minju floor leader.

Yoon isn’t the only target of this regime. Lee’s government is increasingly suppressing freedom of speech. Reports show that authorities are surveilling citizens involved in peaceful protests and even raiding homes. Moves are underway to ban major opposition parties.

Prosecutors took action on Wednesday, raiding offices of the People Power Party.

“This feels reminiscent of actions taken by oppressive regimes,” Tan commented. “The assault on freedom is deeply concerning.”

The U.S. has encountered past left-wing anti-American administrations in South Korea, notably with leaders like Kim Dae Jung and Moon Jae-in. However, there’s an underlying perception in Washington that Lee Jae-myung could be even more challenging.

Perhaps the U.S. could still navigate these uncharted waters, but Lee seems more determined and ruthless than his predecessors. The enduring alliance between America and South Korea faces a precarious future, with democracy in South Korea hanging in the balance.