Martial Law in South Korea Sparks Haunting Memories of Gwangju Massacre

In a tense atmosphere reminiscent of the 1980s, lawmakers and citizens confront the return of martial law, unearthing deep fears tied to historical atrocities.

As South Korea endures martial law once again, many citizens and lawmakers are haunted by memories of the Gwangju massacre that took place over 40 years ago. Among them is 60-year-old lawmaker Chung Chin-ook, who vividly remembers the oppressive military junta that suppressed peaceful protests in Gwangju, leading to a violent crackdown. Responding to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law, Chung and his fellow lawmakers scaled the fences of the National Assembly, determined to invalidate this controversial decree.

Chung recalled the deep fear and desperation experienced during the Gwangju uprising in 1980. “I immediately thought of 1980,” he expressed, highlighting the emotional turmoil that the current situation stirred. As they prepared for a hurried vote, live footage captured the military deploying forces around the assembly, mirroring the terrifying scenes from his youth. The soldiers’ uniforms rekindled painful memories as he witnessed history seemingly repeat itself.

Similarly, Lee Jae-eui, who was a young college student during the original Gwangju uprising, expressed disbelief as he watched the military takeover from his home. Awakened by alerts on his phone, he described the horrifying sense of “déjà-vu,” emphasizing that the people of South Korea are acutely aware of the dangers posed by martial law.

With a collective determination to prevent another tragedy reminiscent of the past, both lawmakers and citizens stand united in resistance, reflecting the hard-fought lessons from their history. “The people know this is not lawful,” Lee affirmed, highlighting the strong resolve of those who refuse to allow martial law to dictate their future once more.