‘Arrest them now’

SEOUL - South Korea has arrested, jailed and convicted so many of its presidents that it has become routine.

- ANA MARIE PAMINTUAN

It successfully hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit despite its latest political turbulence.

Corruption plagues many countries. What matters is how countries deal with it. South Korea has shown that it can hold its highest officials and wealthiest citizens to account for wrongdoing, swiftly and in a credible process. This has allowed the country to become the 13th largest economy.

It has also become a global cultural powerhouse. And among the reasons for the popularity of K-dramas has to be the sight of Koreans who break the law, no matter how high up in government or social stratum, getting caught and punished. Quickly, forthwith, no quibbling about the meaning of the word.

Often, the lawbreakers issue a public apology as they either admit the offense, or else feel remorse for causing the people distress or disappointment.

The K-drama plots are so believable because we know from the news that they reflect real life in South Korea.

It’s my first time to visit this country again since the pre-COVID days. I got hooked on Hallyu during the pandemic lockdowns. Considering the real-life political dramas in South Korea, I can understand why K-dramas have become a favorite form of escapist entertainment for many Filipinos.

Escapist, because the shows feature stories whose denouements we can only wish for in our land.

Just consider the latest political upheaval here, with former president Yoon Suk Yeol still in jail and facing trial for his official acts less than a year ago. Yoon, when he was president, declared martial law on Dec. 3 amid mounting opposition to his government.

On Dec. 14, Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo became acting president, but he himself was impeached on Dec. 27, and first deputy prime minister Choi Sang-mok took over.