South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has reaffirmed his intention to declare December 3 as a day of people’s sovereignty, commemorating the anniversary of former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law. Lee, in a Facebook post marking the 78th Constitution Day, expressed his commitment to making December 3 a legal public holiday to ensure that the significance of the day, when ordinary citizens resisted the unexpected martial law, is preserved for future generations. Last year, Lee had proposed a similar initiative to mark the first anniversary of the political turmoil triggered by Yoon’s martial law declaration.
Lee emphasized the importance of December 3, 2024, as a reminder that the threat to democracy is ever-present in South Korea. He highlighted the country’s resilience in upholding the spirit of popular sovereignty enshrined in the Constitution, referring to it as a “revolution of light” that continues to thrive in the daily lives of the people. Additionally, Lee introduced the presidential “Committee of Light,” comprising experts in constitutional law and democracy, aimed at recognizing individuals who have safeguarded the Constitution and democracy.
The Committee of Light, with a maximum of 35 members, will outline strategies to advance participatory democracy in South Korea and issue certificates to those who played a role in defending democracy during the martial law crisis. Lee emphasized the importance of documenting the “Light Revolution” to showcase Korean-style democracy as a global model. He also unveiled a certificate of appreciation that will be presented to participants at a citizens’ event celebrating the committee’s launch at Cheong Wa Dae.
