Chun Doo-hwan served as the president of South Korea from 1980 until 1988, having seized control through military force. Rising through the ranks of the nation's army, he solidified his authority following the assassination of his predecessor, Park Chung Hee, and oversaw a tenure marked by significant economic expansion alongside intense internal political conflict and suppression.
Military Ascent
Born in 1931 in Hapcheon County, Chun entered the Korea Military Academy in 1951, graduating in 1955. His career advanced rapidly during the presidency of Park Chung Hee. By 1961, Chun actively supported the military coup led by Park and subsequently served in various influential roles, including positions within the Korean Central Intelligence Agency. By 1979, he achieved the rank of general and command of the Security Command.
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Following the assassination of Park Chung Hee on 26 October 1979, the political climate in South Korea grew unstable. Chun orchestrated a successful military coup on 12 December 1979, effectively bypassing constitutional procedures. He formally declared martial law in May 1980, silencing opposition through force. He established the Fifth Republic of Korea in 1981, maintaining broad executive powers until conceding to democratic elections in 1987.
Legal Repercussions
In 1996, the Seoul High Court convicted Chun on multiple charges, including treason and insurrection related to his role in the 1979 coup and the suppression of the Gwangju Uprising. Although sentenced to heavy financial penalties for corruption, he was later pardoned by President Kim Young-sam at the recommendation of President-elect Kim Dae-jung.
Final Years
Chun remained a polarizing figure in his later life due to his refusal to express remorse for his actions during his regime. He passed away on 23 November 2021 in Yeonhui-dong at the age of 90 following a relapse of multiple myeloma. Throughout his life, he held a Buddhist faith and was recognized internationally with various state honors.
Fast facts
- Born: 1931, Hapcheon County
- Died: 2021, Yeonhui-dong
- Education: Korea Military Academy
- Presidential term: 1980-1988
- Military rank: General
- Religion: Buddhism
Questions readers ask
What was Chun's role in the 1979 coup?
Chun orchestrated the military coup on 12 December 1979 to usurp power following the death of President Park Chung Hee.
