With the recent political turmoil in South Korea, the K-film 12.12 The Day captures a glimpse of what martial law would like like for millions of Koreans. We break down this new film and how it is a reflection of the South Korean political landscape.
So what has been happening in South Korea?
Recently the South Korean president, Yoon Suk Yeol, announced in an unexpected press announcement that he would introduce martial law and take over the government in a chance to cease power. This was short-lived as it only lasted a humiliating six hours, however during that time and since the event it has caused a lot of uncertainties within the entertainment industry, and has concerned many Koreans, as well as other nations.
Let's take a look at the trailer of 12.12 The Day!
So what is the film about?
Kim Sung Soo's drama about the 1970 Seoul military coup is one of Koreas biggest box office hits ever!
The film opens in the aftermath of the assassination of President Park Chung Hee, who was a dictator who maintained rule from his own coup in 1961 until his death at the hands of one of his own inner circle. Tasked with investigating the assassination plot is General Chun Doo Gwang (Hwang Jung Min KIll Boksoon 2023). Chun uses the assignment as a means of asserting power by creating a make-believe conspiracy to cast suspicion on anyone who stands in his way. He is also the head of a secret society comprised of military officers who have been overlooked for higher rank due to their lack of elite connections.
Deeply worried about Chun’s increasing control, Army Chief of Staff Jeong Sang Ho (Lee Sung Min Reborn Rich 2022), appoints Lee Tae Shin (Jung Woo Sung) as the new Commander of the Capital Garrison Command. This is a post which entails protecting Seoul against marauding military units, including those led by a rogue general. Jeong’s choice is a sound one, as Lee is a straight-arrow soldier with little interest in political affairs – but he has failed to anticipate the extent of Chun’s strategic planning.
It effectively dramatizes how General Chun Doo Hwan set himself on the path of becoming the President of South Korea, and this film effectively shows two dictatorial regimes and focuses on the considerable risks taken by state servants and civilians alike to challenges the authoritarian rule.
So how is this similar to the 2024 Marshall law declaration?
2024 saw the first martial law declaration since 1979, and as shown in the movie with scenes of military helicopters, armored vehicles entering Seoul, and soldiers breaking into the National Assembly building, it is identical to what we witnessed on December 3, 2024.
Amid the current political turmoil, interest in 12.12: The Day, released over a year ago (November 2023), has been reignited, further solidifying its relevance.
Check out our related articles, to how the martial law news in Korea, has turned the Korean entertainment industry upside down:
If you have watched the movie 12.12 The Day, let us know what similarities you notice between the movie and current events in the comments below.
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