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Yushin Constitution

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History of Korea

Definition

The Yushin Constitution, enacted in 1972 by South Korean President Park Chung-hee, was a set of amendments that significantly expanded executive power while curtailing democratic freedoms. This constitution aimed to legitimize the military dictatorship and consolidate Park's control over the government, effectively transforming South Korea into an authoritarian regime.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Yushin Constitution allowed Park Chung-hee to extend his presidency indefinitely, as it eliminated term limits for the president.
  2. The constitution established a National Conference for Unification, which was dominated by pro-government representatives and effectively undermined genuine political opposition.
  3. Under the Yushin system, civil liberties were restricted, with censorship imposed on the media and political dissent suppressed.
  4. This constitution sparked widespread protests and discontent among the South Korean population, leading to increased activism for democracy.
  5. The Yushin Constitution remained in effect until 1980, when it was replaced amid growing demands for democratic reform.

Review Questions

  • How did the Yushin Constitution affect the balance of power within the South Korean government?
    • The Yushin Constitution drastically shifted the balance of power toward the presidency, giving Park Chung-hee unprecedented authority. It abolished checks on presidential power and allowed him to rule without significant oversight from other branches of government. This consolidation of power led to an authoritarian regime where dissent was harshly suppressed and civil liberties were curtailed.
  • Discuss the public reaction to the Yushin Constitution and how it influenced future movements in South Korea.
    • Public reaction to the Yushin Constitution was largely negative, with many South Koreans viewing it as a means for Park Chung-hee to entrench his dictatorship. This discontent fueled widespread protests, particularly among students and intellectuals, who called for greater democratic freedoms. The backlash against the Yushin regime laid the groundwork for future democratization movements that eventually led to the restoration of democracy in South Korea by the late 1980s.
  • Evaluate the long-term implications of the Yushin Constitution on South Korea's political landscape.
    • The Yushin Constitution had profound long-term implications for South Korea's political landscape. While it initially strengthened authoritarian rule, it also galvanized opposition forces that would emerge in later decades. The suppression of dissent and civil liberties under the Yushin system created a climate of resistance that ultimately contributed to successful democratization efforts in the late 20th century. This legacy continues to influence South Korea's political dynamics today, shaping how citizens engage with their government and advocate for democratic principles.

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