A recent study has unveiled a striking correlation between the consumption of far-right content on YouTube and support for the short-lived martial law declared by South Korea's impeached president, Yoon Suk-yeol. The survey, jointly conducted by the South Korean current affairs journal SisaIn and public opinion poll firm Hankook Research, engaged 2,000 respondents earlier this month to investigate the relationship between YouTube content and public opinion on Yoon's controversial decree.
The survey revealed that 68% of individuals who consumed conservative YouTube content for at least an hour daily believed Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3 was justified. In stark contrast, only 18% of all respondents shared this sentiment. The overwhelming majority, 73%, opposed the martial law decree, highlighting a significant divide in public opinion influenced by media consumption habits.
SisaIn reported the survey findings on Monday, pointing out the strong correlation between far-right content consumption and support for President Yoon. Respondents who dedicated at least an hour to conservative political content showed a markedly higher level of backing for Yoon than those who consumed less or none at all. This suggests that YouTube may be playing a pivotal role in shaping political views within the country.
The survey's purpose was to delve into the impact of digital media on public perception, specifically regarding Yoon's martial law decree. The results underscore a potent influence that conservative YouTube channels may have on their viewers, potentially swaying opinions in favor of contentious political actions. SisaIn remarked on the findings, indicating a disconnect between the views of heavy consumers of far-right content and the broader public consensus.
"This survey confirmed that their political and social awareness is far from the common sense of the majority of citizens." – SisaIn
The survey's revelations raise questions about the role of digital platforms in political discourse and decision-making. By focusing on those who consume significant amounts of conservative content on YouTube, the study highlights a potential shift in how political opinions are formed and expressed in South Korea.
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