Leftists' Excesses Are Turning More South Koreans Conservative

In this way, South Koreans are taking true ownership of their democracy. Since its liberation in 1948, South Korea has had the outward structure of liberal democracy but lacked its soul.

Now, the people are actively shaping their nation in line with their own history, traditions, and values. They are fighting for their freedom – a necessary struggle, as freedom cannot simply be granted or imposed. A functioning democracy must be owned by its people, and South Koreans are demonstrating this principle in action.

On the international front, today's crisis differs from that of 2016. At that time, the US still believed China could be integrated into the existing world order for peaceful coexistence. However, the US has since abandoned its engagement policy, now viewing China as a direct competitor.

What are the global ramifications? If today's America Firsters pursue isolationism the way their post-World War I predecessors did, it could destabilize the region and trigger a domino effect.

In 1921, the US formulated the Washington Treaty System to contain Japanese expansion and prevent encroachment on China. However, lacking the will to enforce it, the US failed to act when Japan seized Manchuria in 1931, believing intervention was not in its interest. This passive stance effectively gave Japan free rein in Asia.

Today, as the US prioritizes its own interests, China has steadily expanded its influence over South Korea – gradually, patiently and covertly.

Two key events illustrate this trend:

With US support, South Korea has become a regional powerhouse. Yet, it remains vulnerable. If the US fails to stand firmly behind South Korea's democracy, China will inevitably fill the vacuum.

Given China's geographic proximity, economic strength and military rise and the growing Chinese population in South Korea, the threat is clear and immediate.

In 1950, the US formulated National Security Council Document 68 (NSC-68), marking a radical shift in policy. It declared that the global struggle was“momentous, involving the fulfillment or destruction not only of this Republic but of civilization itself” and set a goal“to defeat local Soviet moves with local action.”

Today, South Korea stands as the frontline defense against totalitarianism.

In a 2017 article for Asia Times, I argued that the highest levels of conspiracy behind President Park's impeachment were part of a larger subversion attempt by totalitarian forces.

The current crisis suggests that history may be repeating itself – but this time South Koreans are more aware, more engaged and more determined to resist. The international community must recognize that South Korea's struggle is not just a domestic issue – it is a battle for the future of democracy in East Asia.

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If the free world fails to act, it risks allowing authoritarian forces to gain further ground, threatening the stability of the entire region. Now is the time for firm support and unwavering commitment to South Korea's democracy.

Hanjin Lew is a political commentator specializing in East Asian affairs and a former international spokesman for South Korean conservative parties.

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