K-pop Light Sticks Shine at South Korea Protests

 "K-pop has become an essential part of protests... The atmosphere resembles a dance party or a festive celebration."

Context and Explanation for International Readers

This article explores how K-pop culture has intertwined with political demonstrations in South Korea, creating protests that are both vibrant and impactful. International media outlets, including AFP and The New York Times, have reported on these unique demonstrations, emphasizing their creative and festive elements that distinguish South Korean protests from those in other parts of the world.

"With an impeachment vote on the horizon, many protesters dressed in elaborate costumes, carried handmade flags, and played what has now become a staple of protests—K-pop music," wrote AFP.

"The protest in front of the National Assembly on Saturday, predicted to be the largest yet, began in an atmosphere reminiscent of a festival," reported The New York Times.

International media showed particular interest not only in the demands for President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment but also in the distinctive protest culture displayed at the December 7 demonstrations outside the National

AFP described the scene: "Following President Yoon’s controversial decision to deploy the military to arrest lawmakers—a move protesters saw as an attempt to undermine ‘civil governance’—demonstrations erupted across Seoul, stretching from the central square to the National Assembly." The report added, "Participants seemed to enjoy themselves, dancing to K-pop, waving colorful light sticks and LED candles. Parts of the protest felt more like a dance party than a demonstration."

One notable moment cited by AFP occurred during a December 6 protest, where young participants jumped to the beat of "Whiplash" by the K-pop group aespa, chanting slogans like "Impeach Yoon Suk-yeol!" and "Resign Yoon Suk-yeol!"

AFP also mentioned a social media post from a protester who wrote that dancing to aespa’s music helped them overcome their fear.

During an earlier protest on December 5, Girls’ Generation’s hit debut song, "Into the New World," played in the background. While this upbeat track isn’t inherently political, AFP noted that it became a protest anthem during the 2016–2017 demonstrations against former President Park Geun-hye, resonating with young female protesters at the time.

The report also highlighted how protesters used songs like the Christmas carol "Feliz Navidad," with altered lyrics, as well as nostalgic tracks from their school days, to amplify their messages.

Unique Flags and Symbols

AFP added a touch of humor by describing the whimsical flags carried by some protest groups. Banners bore names such as "The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster," "Loners’ Alliance," "Dog Paw Smell Research Society," "Flower Planting Club," and "Insomniac Editors’ Union."

The agency also noted props inspired by French protest culture, including guillotine replicas and baguettes, which added an international flair to the demonstrations.

Observations by The New York Times

The New York Times painted a vivid picture of the protests outside the National Assembly: "Large screens and sound systems lined the roads leading to the National Assembly. Speakers and performers energized the crowd with chants and songs calling for President Yoon’s impeachment."

The report mentioned that, despite the closure of three nearby subway stations, crowds continued to pour in. "Wrapped in blankets and holding signs, protesters braved nearly a week of freezing weather. From a distance, chants and music could be heard echoing through the streets," the article described.

The Times also noted the presence of families at the protests. One mother, who brought her two-year-old son in a stroller, expressed her determination: "I don’t want my son to grow up in a country where martial law could ever be declared again."

Final Thoughts

South Korea’s protest culture stands out for its creativity, seamlessly blending serious political advocacy with cultural expression. These demonstrations, powered by K-pop music and colorful visuals, have captivated international audiences and media. They serve as a powerful reminder that political expression can take many forms—sometimes even resembling a dance party.

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