South Koreans Use aespa’s ‘Whiplash’ to Protest President Yoon Suk-yeol’s Leadership

On December 6, 2024, South Koreans gathered outside the National Assembly in Seoul, playing aespa’s song Whiplash as part of protests calling for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. A viral clip of the protest, shared by @AboutMusicYT, showed citizens using the K-pop track to amplify their demands.

The protests were sparked by President Yoon’s declaration of martial law on December 3, citing alleged “anti-state activities” by opposition lawmakers in the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). The move, which saw the military briefly surround the National Assembly, was met with fierce resistance from both lawmakers and citizens. Just six hours later, the National Assembly voted overwhelmingly to revoke the decree, forcing Yoon to lift martial law early on December 4.

This controversial action led to widespread discontent, with public approval of President Yoon dropping to historic lows. Over 58% of South Koreans favored his resignation, and protests erupted across the country.

The viral clip of the protest, featuring the lively atmosphere of K-pop fans waving lightsticks and chanting along to the beats, sparked positive reactions from global internet users. Many praised the unique, energetic way South Koreans were turning protests into celebratory demonstrations.

One user on X wrote, “Ok, the number of people with lightsticks and Minecraft torches is incredible—THIS is how you do a protest.” Others commented on how the combination of music and protest created an empowering atmosphere. “I love how everyone protests with K-pop and lightsticks like it’s a concert,” said one fan, while another added, “The beat itself is empowering, even the lyrics.”

Some also recalled previous protests where K-pop songs like Girls’ Generation’s Into the New World had been used to call for the president’s removal, noting that Koreans often find a way to make protests feel like a collective, powerful event.