Resurgent Right: Freedom University’s Youth Movement in South Korea

Sat Dec 20 2025 05:29:31 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Exploring how the right-wing group Freedom University is captivating disenchanted South Korean youth, drawing parallels to America's MAGA movement.

As South Korea's youth grow increasingly disillusioned by the current political climate, the right-wing group Freedom University has emerged as a rallying point for young voices. With their calls to 'Make Korea Great Again,' they draw parallels to the American MAGA movement, making a splash in anti-government protests and reshaping the dialogue among a generation seeking change.

The line for a selfie with South Korea's disgraced former President Yoon Suk Yeol stretched around Seoul's iconic Gwanghwamun gate.

Except Yoon wasn't there; it was just a picture of him.

The real Yoon is in prison facing insurrection charges. But that didn't matter to the thousands of excited young men and women who had joined the rally organised by right-wing youth group Freedom University.

Spearheaded by 24-year-old student Park Joon-young, Freedom University opposes what it sees as a status quo of corrupt, left-wing South Korean governments promising much but delivering little, especially for the nation's youth.

On the night of December 3, after losing parliamentary majority, Yoon declared martial law, claiming threats from North Korean sympathisers and Chinese spies. However, this move was defeated swiftly by angry citizens.

Impeached soon after, Yoon has strangely emerged as a martyr among some youth, who now view him as a symbol of defiance.

While he was never popular, particularly among young South Koreans, Yoon's current predicament has transformed him into a rebellious icon. When Yoon was elected, it was more that a left-wing candidate lost, rather than joy over a right-wing victory, explained Park.

Hearing Yoon's defiance against the Democratic Party for "abusing its power" resonated with young people who feel marginalized by the current political landscape.

'Make Korea Great Again'

Many supporters at Freedom University express that traditional political parties have neglected the issues most important to them.

Hyung Ki-sang, 28, turned out for pro-Yoon rallies after feeling ignored by the political establishment. Speeches at rallies echo themes from the American MAGA movement, with slogans like Make Korea Great Again being proudly displayed.

The growth of a movement

Park Joon-young's background is indicative of the youth movement's emergence—having been raised in a politically active family, his shift to right-wing beliefs began through a rejection of left-leaning influence.

He emphasizes the desire to create a platform that allows free expression of conservative ideas, challenging what he perceives as a cancel culture in South Korea.

Freedom University utilizes aggressive social media strategies to mobilize young people feeling disconnected from the establishment and promises hope amid widespread economic fears.

Disenchanted youth

Currently, nearly 75% of young South Koreans view the economy unfavorably and feel burdened by a pessimistic outlook for their futures. Economic growth remains stagnant, while job opportunities dwindle.

As discontent brews, the Freedom University movement continues to grow, offering a narrative that resonates with many disillusioned youths.

In this shifting political landscape, the group cautions against escalating polarization, hoping to channel frustration into constructive dialogue rather than hate.

With increased participation at rallies, it’s clear that a new wave of political engagement is forming, marking a significant moment in South Korea's political narrative.