A South Korean general and politician who served as the 5th President of South Korea, known for his military coup and subsequent authoritarian rule. He's infamous for his role in the Gwangju Democratization Movement's brutal suppression.
Chun Doohwan is perhaps best known for his tumultuous reign as the President of South Korea from 1980 to 1988, a period marked by authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and economic growth. He came to power through a military coup, following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee, and ruled with an iron fist until his eventual transition to democracy.
Born on January 18, 1931, Chun Doohwan was a career military officer who rose through the ranks to become a general. He orchestrated the 12 December 1979 military coup, which cemented his position as a military dictator. He then declared martial law and established a concentration camp for "purificatory education," solidifying his grip on power.
On March 3, 1981, Chun established the Fifth Republic of Korea, under which he governed with a constitution that, although less authoritarian than Park's Fourth Republic, still granted him broad executive powers. During his tenure, South Korea's economy experienced rapid growth, achieving its first trade surplus in 1986.
Chun's regime was marked by numerous human rights abuses, including the brutal suppression of the Gwangju Uprising in 1980, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds, possibly thousands, of citizens. His regime was also characterized by strict censorship, political repression, and the imprisonment of dissidents.
In 1987, Chun conceded to allowing the December presidential election to be free and open, which was won by his close friend and ally, Roh Tae-woo. Chun's legacy is tainted by his authoritarianism and human rights abuses, and he was later sentenced to death in 1996 for his role in the Gwangju Uprising. Although he was pardoned the following year, his actions remain a dark stain on South Korea's history.
Little is known about Chun's personal life, except that he was married to Lee Soon-ja and had two sons. His net worth is estimated to be in the millions, largely due to embezzlement and corruption during his regime.
One of Chun's most notable quotes is: "I will take responsibility for my actions, but I will not apologize for maintaining order and stability in the country."
Chun's regime is often compared to that of his predecessor, Park Chung-hee, who also ruled with an iron fist. However, while Park's regime was marked by rapid economic growth and industrialization, Chun's regime was characterized by authoritarianism and human rights abuses.
Chun's legacy continues to shape modern South Korean society, with many viewing him as a symbol of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. His regime's suppression of dissidents and censorship have had a lasting impact on the country's democracy and human rights landscape.
Chun received several awards and honors during his reign, including the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea's highest civilian honor.
Chun's regime must be viewed within the context of South Korea's tumultuous history, marked by colonialism, war, and authoritarianism. His legacy serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of protecting human rights and democracy.
93 Years Old
South Korea's first democratically elected president, known for his role in the country's transition to democracy and his key role in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. He's also infamous for his involvement in a military coup and human rights abuses.
Born in 1924
A South Korean politician and Nobel laureate who served as the country's 8th president, known for his Sunshine Policy towards North Korea and efforts to promote democracy and human rights. He is a symbol of South Korea's transition from dictatorship to democracy.
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The 7th President of South Korea, a key figure in the country's democratization, known for his efforts to reform the government and economy. He's also remembered for his "New Economy" plan and anti-corruption initiatives.
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South Korea's first businessman president, known for his economic reforms and infrastructure projects, particularly the Four Major Rivers Project. He was also involved in a corruption scandal that led to his imprisonment.
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The first female president of South Korea, serving from 2013 to 2017, known for her efforts to improve relations with North Korea and her subsequent impeachment and imprisonment for corruption.
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The 19th President of South Korea, a key figure in the country's efforts to reconcile with North Korea, known for his progressive policies and Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
Born in 1897
A key figure in South Korea's transition to democracy, he served as president from 1960 to 1962 and advocated for human rights and social justice. He's remembered for his efforts to rebuild the country after the Korean War.
