Disinformation Campaigns Exploit South Korea’s Political Crisis

Last year, South Korea experienced one of its most significant political crises in decades, largely fueled by disinformation against China. Following the failed attempt by President Yoon Suk Yeol to impose martial law, a narrative emerged that Beijing was manipulating events from the shadows. Supporters of Yoon accused China of infiltrating protests, financing efforts to impeach him, and swaying public opinion ahead of the June snap election that resulted in the opposition leader Lee Jae Myung taking office.

During a televised address in December 2022, Yoon intensified these suspicions, asserting that “forces linked to North Korea and China are threatening our democracy from within.” Yet a review by AFP Fact Check discovered a lack of substantial evidence backing these claims, such as alleged arrests of “99 Chinese spies” or Chinese-funded protests. Experts argue that this narrative reflects domestic political rivalries and a longstanding anti-China sentiment in South Korea.

Roots of Disinformation

The anti-China rhetoric gained traction on right-wing forums, amplified by YouTubers and echoed by lawmakers. Following Yoon’s impeachment, claims circulated that the National Election Commission (NEC) had detained “99 Chinese spies” who were subsequently flown to Okinawa by the US military. Investigations revealed that the images associated with this claim were misattributed, depicting Chinese fishermen detained for illegal fishing in 2016. Both the NEC and US Forces Korea denounced the reports as “entirely false,” yet the rumor persisted, even being mentioned in court proceedings.

As the Constitutional Court deliberated on Yoon’s removal, misinformation targeting the judiciary escalated. A doctored image of Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae purportedly swearing allegiance to a Chinese flag circulated online, despite the original photo showing him with South Korea’s flag. Following the Court’s unanimous decision to oust Yoon in April 2023, conspiracy theories emerged among his supporters, claiming judicial compromise. Public trust in the court plummeted, with surveys indicating that distrust exceeded 40 percent.

Political Manipulation and Cultural Resentment

The political landscape shifted further after Lee’s election victory, reviving anti-China themes. False claims spread that The Guardian had reported Chinese assistance in Lee’s win. The original article referenced concerns about Chinese influence in democracies, without mentioning South Korea specifically. This distortion gained traction, with conservative lawmakers alleging significant involvement of Chinese nationals in pro-impeachment rallies.

Tensions escalated in August 2023 when the Justice Ministry announced a visa-free program for Chinese group tourists. Former Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn claimed it was a strategy to facilitate voter fraud in upcoming elections. The NEC clarified that only foreigners with at least three years of permanent residency were eligible to vote in local elections. Nonetheless, misinformation spread that all Chinese nationals could enter South Korea without passports or health checks.

This climate of disinformation has not only impacted South Korean politics but reflects broader global trends, according to Ha Nam-suk, a professor at the University of Seoul. He noted that rising anti-China sentiment has become a tool for political factions seeking to consolidate power. As Yoon’s political relevance waned, hard-liners in South Korea found a new enemy to rally against, transforming general anti-China feelings into a more pronounced ideological campaign.

The implications of this disinformation extend beyond South Korea, highlighting a troubling trend where political narratives are shaped by cultural and historical grievances. As nations grapple with the challenges posed by misinformation, the South Korean experience offers a cautionary tale of how political crises can be exacerbated by the manipulation of public sentiment.