Full Breakdown
South Korean Citizens Nominated for Nobel Peace Prize Over Martial Law Resistance
2/19/2026, 11:23:30 PM
Collective Resistance Against Martial Law
South Korean citizens have been nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize due to their unified resistance against the martial law declared by former President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 3, 2024. The nomination was submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee by a group of political scientists, including Seoul National University professor Kim Eui-young and other prominent academics from international political science associations. They referred to the citizens' actions as a “Revolution of Light,” highlighting the non-violent protests characterized by the use of lightsticks.
Following the martial law declaration, citizens gathered at significant political sites, including in front of the National Assembly, where they faced police and military blockades. The assembly subsequently voted to compel Yoon to lift the decree within six hours. Despite this, protests continued nationwide, demanding Yoon's impeachment and accountability for his actions.
Official Statements & Responses
Professor Kim Eui-young emphasized the global significance of the South Korean citizens' actions, stating, “The world watched with wonder as Korea overcame insurrection and reinstated democracy in just six months.” He compared the impact of this movement to the cultural influence of K-pop and K-drama, suggesting that “K-democracy” is equally noteworthy. President Lee Jae Myung also expressed support for the nomination, stating that recognition through the Nobel Peace Prize would serve as a model for other nations facing conflict and division.
Background on the Martial Law Declaration
The martial law declared by Yoon Suk Yeol has been ruled unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court, which confirmed his impeachment. Yoon is currently undergoing trial related to this declaration, which has been classified as an act of insurrection. Several former officials, including former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, have faced severe penalties, with Han receiving a 23-year prison sentence in January.
Criticism & Opposition
While the nomination has garnered significant support, there are dissenting views regarding the implications of awarding the Nobel Peace Prize to the South Korean citizens. Critics argue that the situation remains complex, as the political landscape continues to evolve with ongoing trials and public sentiment about the martial law declaration.
What's Next
The Nobel Prize announcements are scheduled to occur between October 5 and October 12, 2026, with the Peace Prize laureate to be named on October 9. The nomination of the South Korean citizens reflects a broader narrative of civic engagement and democratic resilience amid global challenges to democracy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The world watched with wonder as Korea overcame insurrection and reinstated democracy in just six months, at a time of global democratic recession,” — Kim Eui-young, Professor, Seoul National University
- “If the people of Korea receive the Nobel Peace Prize for restoring peace and demonstrating the value of democracy to the world, it would mark a major turning point for countries shaken by conflict and division,” — Lee Jae Myung, President of South Korea
- “[We South Koreans] get it done.” — Lee Jae Myung, President of South Korea
