[Wang Son-taek] Protests pose new test for Korean democracy

South Korea's democracy appears to be recovering from one of the gravest crises in its recent history.

The turmoil triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed insurrection in December 2024 shook public confidence and raised concerns both at home and abroad about the resilience of the country's democratic institutions.

Yet just as that chapter seemed to be closing, another challenge has emerged.

During the local elections held on June 3, shortages of ballot papers were reported at scores ...