South Koreans are using flower wreaths and K-pop light sticks as symbols of political protest during the country’s most significant political crisis in decades, triggered by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief declaration of martial law in December.
Thousands of flower wreaths, many criticizing Yoon and other officials involved in the martial law controversy, have been sent to his residence and government buildings linked to the impeachment process, AP reports.
Local media estimate the number of wreaths delivered to government offices at several thousand. Messages range from moderate to extreme, reflecting the deepening political divide.
Funeral wreaths with black ribbons and white chrysanthemums, as well as celebratory arrangements of roses and orchids, cost up to $75 and carry messages of both support and condemnation.
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This protest tactic has seen growing media attention. Analysis from Big Kinds, a database of over 100 local news outlets, shows that media coverage of wreath protests in 2024 was four times higher than in 2023. Though the exact origin of this method is unclear, it first appeared in the early 2010s.
While many flower shops deny receiving orders for protest wreaths, some have become central to the movement. Yoon Miyoung, owner of Dongsung Flower in Seoul, said her shop has delivered over 1,000 wreaths since December, primarily for pro-Yoon supporters.
“Seoul is running out of flowers,” she remarked, noting that about a third of her customers are in their 20s and 30s, with orders also coming from Japan, the United States, and the Netherlands.
Experts view wreath protests as a unique but polarizing form of demonstration. Sociology professor Choi Hang-sub from Kookmin University compared the messages on wreaths to offline hate speech, akin to malicious online comments.
Jungwon University’s Kim Hern Sik described the method as confined to certain political groups, limiting its broader appeal.
Environmental concerns have also been raised, as most wreaths use non-eco-friendly materials. However, Kim highlighted younger generations’ innovative protest methods, such as using K-pop light sticks at rallies.
During pro-impeachment protests last December, demonstrators wielded light sticks from bands like BIGBANG and NCT, valued at around $50, to express their views.
The crisis began on December 3 when Yoon imposed martial law and deployed troops to the National Assembly, leading to his impeachment on December 13.
Arrested on January 19, Yoon now faces rebellion charges as the Constitutional Court deliberates his fate within the next 180 days.