In December, when South Korea's president Yoon Suk Yeol infamously declared martial law, a wave of protests erupted, led predominantly by young women. These activists saw their chance to confront a leader they viewed as neglectful of gender equality. Among them was college student An Byunghui, who traveled from Daegu to Seoul, feeling compelled to fight against systemic sexism.
The protests grew, echoing resistance seen in past political movements, with women forming a critical voice against perceived injustices. The anthems they sang—like "Into the World" by Girls' Generation—became symbols of their unity and determination for change. Yet now, as election season heats up, those same young women feel that their concerns are being ignored by candidates who seem to disregard gender equality.
Candidates for the upcoming election have struggled to address women's needs. This has left activists like Byunghui questioning if their efforts during protests truly led to any meaningful change. The political landscape appears polarized, with a resurgence of anti-feminist sentiment largely appealing to young men. The ruling party, under scrutiny after Yoon's downfall, is failing to present adequate female representation among candidates, raising alarm bells about the future of women's rights in South Korea.
Activist sentiments echo throughout the election, with many expressing disappointment at how their voices were omitted during campaign discussions. Candidates have been slow to propose solid plans to improve gender equality, and their true commitment to addressing these issues remains uncertain. Women's rights, which were championed during protests, seem to be sliding backward, prompting activists to vow to keep fighting for recognition in a system that appears resistant to their demands.
