7-1-2025 (SEOUL) The South Korean political landscape has become increasingly fractious as the ruling People Power Party (PPP) faces criticism for allegedly stoking anti-Chinese sentiment amidst the ongoing impeachment crisis of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
In a contentious development, two PPP lawmakers have drawn sharp rebuke for suggesting Chinese residents are actively supporting anti-Yoon demonstrations. PPP representative Kim Min-jeon sparked particular controversy at a pro-Yoon gathering when she claimed Chinese nationals were “at the forefront” of impeachment rallies.
The political drama unfolds as President Yoon remains sequestered in his Han River residence following his 14 December impeachment, having refused to comply with investigators’ summons regarding his controversial 3 December martial law declaration.
At the heart of the controversy is a 20-year-old woman of Chinese descent who spoke at a December pro-impeachment rally. Despite clarifying her Korean heritage and relinquished Chinese citizenship, she has become the target of online harassment campaigns.
The Chinese Embassy in Seoul has responded by issuing stern warnings to its citizens against political involvement, whilst Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the ruling party’s espionage accusations as “deeply unsettling.”
Local observers paint a different picture of rally attendance. “Claims of massive Chinese participation are simply unfounded,” says Chung Chung-sik, a North Jeolla farmer who regularly attends demonstrations.
The situation has drawn academic scrutiny, with Incheon National University’s Professor Chang Jung-a noting that foreign attendees mainly comprised curious students interested in South Korean democracy.
The controversy has exposed deeper fissures in South Korean society, particularly regarding social media influence. Conservative commentator Cho Gab-je expressed concern about President Yoon’s apparent susceptibility to extreme YouTube channels, whilst columnist Hong Sung-guk warned that such conspiracy theories risk damaging South Korea-China relations.
Meanwhile, the political crisis deepens with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo’s impeachment on 27 December, leaving Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok as acting president while the Constitutional Court deliberates on President Yoon’s fate.
