1987 South Korean Presidential Election: The Dawn of the Sixth Republic
On 16 December 1987, South Korea held a landmark presidential election that fundamentally reshaped the nation's political landscape. This election marked the establishment of the Sixth Republic and signaled the end of authoritarian rule that had persisted for nearly all of the country's history since its founding in 1948. Most significantly, it represented the first direct presidential election since 1971, breaking a long period where presidents were indirectly elected by the National Conference for Unification.
The vote took place against a backdrop of intense social upheaval and just before the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. While the governing Democratic Justice Party's candidate, Roh Tae-woo, emerged victorious, the election was defined by a massive surge in democratic participation and a highly competitive field of opposition leaders.
Key Facts
- Election Date: 16 December 1987
- Winner: Roh Tae-woo (Democratic Justice Party)
- Voter Turnout: 89.15%
- Historical Significance: First direct presidential election since 1971; established the Sixth Republic.
- Constitutional Change: Transitioned from indirect to direct elections via the 9th amendment.
The June Struggle and Constitutional Reform
The path to the 1987 election was paved by the June Struggle, a period of nationwide protests between 10 and 29 June demanding civil liberties and free elections. These demonstrations successfully pressured the regime of President Chun Doo-hwan and his successor, Roh Tae-woo, to accept key democratic demands.
Prior to these reforms, the constitution under Chun Doo-hwan had been modified to limit presidential power while still allowing significant control, such as the ability to dissolve the legislature. However, the momentum for change led to the ratification of a new constitutional amendment. This amendment, approved by 93% of voters in a referendum on 27 October, introduced several critical changes:
- Direct participation in presidential elections for all citizens over age 20.
- A reduction of the presidential term to five years with a ban on re-election.
- The removal of the president's right to dissolve the legislature or suspend constitutional freedoms.
- Increased oversight, requiring the National Assembly to approve emergency measures.
The Candidates and Their Platforms
The election featured four primary candidates, each drawing support from distinct regional and social demographics. Because the country utilized a first-past-the-post system (where the candidate with the most votes wins, even without an absolute majority), candidates focused on maximizing their specific bases.
Roh Tae-woo (Democratic Justice Party)
As the designated successor to Chun Doo-hwan, Roh worked to distance himself from the unpopular incumbent. He campaigned on a platform of stability and continued economic reform. His support was strongest in rural areas, among conservative middle-class voters, and in his home province of North Gyeongsang.
Kim Young-sam (Reunification Democratic Party)
A moderate and pragmatic politician, Kim Young-sam appealed to the growing urban middle class and the Protestant population. He sought an end to military influence in politics and found significant support in South Gyeongsang Province and Busan.
Kim Dae-jung (Peace Democratic Party)
A prominent figure in the dissident movement, Kim Dae-jung campaigned on liberal democracy and social welfare. While viewed with suspicion by the military, he commanded immense loyalty in the North and South Jeolla Provinces, attracting students, labor organizers, and human rights activists.
Kim Jong-pil (New Democratic Republican Party)
An associate of former president Park Chung Hee, Kim Jong-pil campaigned on the legacy of rapid economic industrialization. His support was primarily concentrated in the South Chungcheong Province.
Election Results Summary
| Candidate | Party | Popular Vote | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roh Tae-woo | Democratic Justice Party | 8,282,738 | 36.64% |
| Kim Young-sam | Reunification Democratic | 6,337,581 | 28.04% |
| Kim Dae-jung | Peace Democratic | 6,113,375 | 27.05% |
| Kim Jong-pil | New Democratic Republican | 1,823,067 | 8.07% |
| Shin Jeong-yil | Unified Korea Party | 46,650 | 0.21% |
Controversies and Allegations of Fraud
Despite the official outcome, historical documents have raised questions regarding the integrity of the process. CIA documents obtained via freedom of information requests suggest that ruling-party planners had considered "black propaganda" and ballot tampering to prevent an opposition victory. The briefs indicated that the government was prepared to declare the election null and void if early returns suggested Roh Tae-woo was losing.
However, these allegations were met with skepticism by observers on the ground. Lynn Turk, a US State Department official at the time, noted that the votes were counted fairly and that each of the four parties had observers at polling places to ensure the accuracy of the hand-counted totals. Park Chul-un, an aide to Roh Tae-woo, also dismissed the reports of planned fraud as groundless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the 1987 election?
It marked the transition to the Sixth Republic and the return to direct presidential elections, ending years of authoritarian rule and indirect elections via an electoral college.
Who won the 1987 presidential election?
Roh Tae-woo of the Democratic Justice Party won the election with 36.64% of the popular vote.
How did the June Struggle affect the election?
The June Struggle was a series of mass protests that forced the government to accept constitutional amendments, including the move to direct elections and increased civil liberties.
Why was the voter turnout so high?
The turnout was 89.15%, driven by intense public interest in the transition to democracy and the end of military-dominated politics.
Were there allegations of election rigging?
Yes, CIA documents suggested that ruling-party planners considered various methods of fraud, though contemporary observers stated the actual vote counting was conducted fairly.