South Korean youth are increasingly taking to the streets of Seoul in daily protests against communism and the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). These demonstrations, often linked to support for President Yoon Suk Yeol, feature strong anti-CCP sentiments and calls for national sovereignty. "Korean younger are fighting against communist fake government everyday on the street of Seoul. They are shouting CCP OUT, CHINA LEE OUT, YOON AGAIN, Make America and Korea Great Again," stated @Predator_1950 in a widely shared tweet, highlighting the core messages of the movement.
The protests align with President Yoon Suk Yeol's rhetoric regarding communist infiltrators and external forces, particularly amidst his political challenges, including an impeachment trial. Animosity toward the CCP has become a central theme in these rallies, with participants expressing a growing general dislike for China and its ruling party. "@GordonGChang affirmed, 'No one is going to stop Korea’s patriots from protecting President Yoon. Good!'" indicating strong conservative backing for the movement.
Visually, the demonstrations are characterized by participants waving both the South Korean Taegeukgi and American Stars and Stripes flags, chanting slogans like "CCP OUT." Protesters claim that major news outlets are not adequately covering their efforts. "_blue25a11 highlighted, 'Young people in South Korea are marching through the streets, holding the Taegeukgi and the American Stars and Stripes, chanting "CCP OUT." This procession seems to go on endlessly,'" underscoring the perceived scale and persistence of the rallies.
These youth-led protests occur within a broader context of concerns over Chinese influence operations in South Korea, including allegations of manipulated public opinion and undeclared Chinese police stations. The Chinese embassy in Seoul has reportedly advised its nationals against participating in local political events. This surge in youth activism also reflects South Korea's long history of public protests, with the current movement focusing on geopolitical and ideological concerns.
The ongoing demonstrations underscore deepening political divisions within South Korea, particularly concerning foreign policy and national identity. While some observers note an "ungovernable group within the conservative movement," the protests signify a determined effort by a segment of the population to assert South Korea's independence and counter perceived external threats. The movement's continued momentum suggests a significant, albeit underreported, shift in youth political engagement.