The Candlelight Movement, Democracy, and Communication in Korea

This book examines key features, problems and implications of the 2016-2017 Candlelight Movement, a historical cornerstone for democracy and social movements in South Korea.

Part 1: Media and media space 1. A crisis of press freedom: Investigative journalism and the downfall of the President 2. One small action for the larger movement 3. Social media use on protest sites during the 2016-2017 candlelight vigils in Seoul Part 2: Culture and performance 4. "With the brightest light we have": K-pop fandom in candlelight movement and diversification of Korean protest culture 5. Channeling anger into hope 6. Dancing for hope: The shamanic ritual and performative Koreanness at the candlelight protests Part 3: Counterpublics and representation 7. Contested neoliberal vulnerability: Laboring, feminine, and queer subjects in the streets of the impeachment protest 8. The conservative news media outlets: Blowing out candles for economic democracy 9. From flags to candles: Visual hailing and articulation of nation Appendix: An analysis of contemporary Korean society through the candlelight movement: A historical perspective to the social phenomena and changes