Youth Movement in South Korea: Rallying Behind Right-Wing Ideals

Sat Dec 20 2025 09:04:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A rising right-wing group in South Korea, led by disillusioned youth, embraces a nationalist agenda reminiscent of the American MAGA movement, centering their support around former President Yoon Suk Yeol.

As South Korea's youth grapple with economic uncertainty, a right-wing group called Freedom University is gaining traction by promoting nationalist sentiments and rallying around the controversial figure of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The group's rise reflects a broader polarization within the country as young people feel neglected by traditional political forces. Their message echoes that of American populist movements, resonating with disenchanted generations.

Make Korea great again: The right-wing group wooing disenchanted youth

The line for a selfie with South Korea's disgraced former President Yoon Suk Yeol stretched around Seoul's iconic Gwanghwamun gate. Except Yoon wasn't there; it was just a picture of him. The real Yoon is in prison facing insurrection charges. Yet, thousands of excited young participants joined a rally organized by the right-wing youth group Freedom University.

Spearheaded by 24-year-old Park Joon-young, Freedom University criticizes what they perceive as the corruption of the left-wing government and a lack of support for the youth. To them, Yoon has become an unlikely hero since his imprisonment. In December, he attempted to declare martial law to safeguard his presidency but was met with widespread public resistance which led to his impeachment.

While Yoon's presidency was marked by unpopularity, particularly among the youth, his situation has transformed him into a figure of defiance against the establishment. Park notes, When Yoon was elected, it was more that a left-wing candidate lost than that we were happy about Yoon. Now, their rallies reflect a rising fervor among young South Koreans who feel increasingly abandoned by the political status quo.

'Make Korea great again'

Many young supporters have expressed dissatisfaction with traditional political parties, believing they do not represent young people's interests. The movement has adopted slogans like Make Korea Great Again, mirroring the American right's messaging. Freedom University's growth is attributed to aggressive online campaigns mobilizing students and encouraging youth engagement.

The growth of a movement

Members of Freedom University, such as Hyung Ki-sang, a 28-year-old supporter, have joined the movement out of disenchantment with current political parties. Their rallies, featuring signs such as Korea for Koreans, reflect an anti-Chinese sentiment, which resonates with many facing economic hardships. Approaches inspired by right-wing movements in the U.S. help shape their platform, aiming to create space for discourse free from the fear of backlash.

Disenchanted youth

A recent survey reveals that many young South Koreans view the economy negatively, with high unemployment rates and low homeownership rates further fueling dissatisfaction. Freedom University's rise mirrors a societal shift, as youth who feel neglected and frustrated begin to embrace more extreme political ideologies. The psychiatrist Kim Hyun Soo emphasizes the need to provide new visions for hope as movements like Freedom University grow stronger amidst the disillusionment.