Korean Celebrities Rally for Democracy: A Show of Support During Presidential Elections
As early voting commenced for Korea’s 21st presidential election on Thursday and Friday, a wave of celebrities took to social media to express their participation. Stars such as BTS’s J-Hope, NMIXX’s Haewon, actor Kim Go-eun, and comedian Cho Sae-ho proudly showcased their voting experiences, reinforcing the importance of civic duty among fans and followers.
J-Hope, clad in black gear, shared a snapshot outside a voting station in Oksu-dong, while Han Ye-ri opted for a black-and-white selfie to signal her democratic engagement. The celebrities navigated the unspoken "no color, no gesture" rule governing political expression for public figures in Korea, ensuring their posts adhered to the strict guidelines.
Comedian Cho masked his face to maintain neutrality in his voting announcement, while singer Lee Chae-yeon creatively neutralized her blue wrist brace—a potential political statement—by holding cherry tomatoes, humorously captioning her post about her dilemma. Conversely, singer Lee Seung-hwan, who has voiced support for former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, wore blue attire in his voting confirmation.
This year’s early voting turnout reached 34.74%, highlighting a significant public engagement. By posting on social media, these celebrities not only confirmed their votes but also encouraged civic participation, bridging the gap between the entertainment industry and the political landscape. As election season heats up, fans are reminded of the crucial role they play in shaping their nation’s future.
As the elections approach, the efforts of these public figures serve as a reminder of the power of voting and active participation in democracy.
By Shin Min-hee, [contact]
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