Historical Background
Korea’s history during the last sixty years as it transitioned from a colony to a democracy has been fraught with violence, war, and civil disputes. With Japan’s defeat in World War II in 1945, Korea was divided in two at the 38th parallel with administration of the north side given to the Soviet Union while the south side was administered by the United States (see Gwangbokjeol). In 1948, two separate governments formed, each claiming to be the legitimate government of all of Korea.
South Korea (Republic of Korea) was formally established on August 15, 1948 by Syngman Rhee. The establishment of a legitimate government body in South Korea was marked by civil unrest and several instances of violence (see Jeju Uprising, Yeosu-Suncheon Rebellion). Two years after the establishment of Republic of Korea, North Korean forces invaded South Korea precipitating the Korean War.
The war ended with an Armistice agreement signed on July 1953. Syngman Rhee attempted to maintain his control of the government by pushing through constitutional amendments, declaring martial law, and jailing members of parliament who stood against him. His rule came to an end in April 1960 as protests throughout Korea forced him to resign on April 26. (See April Revolution.)
After Syngman Rhee’s resignation, an interim government briefly held power until Major General Park Chung-hee took control through a military coup on May 16, 1961. Amid pressure from the United States, the new military government decided to hold elections in 1963 to return power to a civilian government. Park Chung-hee ran for President in those elections and was narrowly elected. In 1967 and 1971, Park Chung-hee ran for re-election and won using a constitutional amendment that allowed a president to serve more than two terms.
During his rule, Korea saw dramatic economic growth and increased international recognition as it maintained close ties with and received aid from the United States. On October 17, 1972, Park Chung-hee declared martial law, dissolving the national assembly and putting forth the Yusin Constitution which gave the president effective control of parliament. This led to civil unrest and the jailing of hundreds of dissidents.
In 1979, Park Chung-hee was assassinated by Korean CIA Director Kim Jaegyu leading to another military coup by Major General Chun Doo-hwan. This coup led to a more civil unrest and government clampdowns (see Gwangju Massacre). Public outrage over government killings led to more popular support for democracy.
In 1987, Roh Tae-woo, a colleague of Chun Doo-hwan, was elected President. During his rule, he promised a more democratic constitution, a wide program of reforms, and popular election of the president. In 1993, Kim Young-sam was elected President, becoming the first civilian President in 30 years.
Read more about this topic: Truth And Reconciliation Commission (South Korea)
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