In recent months, South Korea has witnessed a surge in an unconventional protest method involving wreaths and K-pop light sticks, garnering four times more media coverage in 2024 compared to the previous year. This novel form of dissent gained popularity after President Yoon Suk Yeol imposed martial law on December 3, leading to his impeachment 11 days later. Protesters have been sending flower wreaths to government offices, including the residence of President Yoon, as part of their demonstrations. These wreaths, which cost between $50 and $75, often feature black ribbons, white chrysanthemums, and vibrant roses and orchids. This method of protest has been embraced by both those supporting and opposing President Yoon, signaling a broad spectrum of political sentiment.
At the heart of these demonstrations is the Constitutional Court's decision-making process regarding President Yoon's political future. The court has 180 days to decide whether to formally remove him from office or reinstate him. Meanwhile, thousands have participated in pro-impeachment rallies, wielding K-pop light sticks alongside sending floral tributes to government offices. Some wreaths carry extreme rhetoric targeting recipients, while others offer more moderate messages either supporting Yoon or opposing his impeachment.
The phenomenon has deep roots in South Korean culture, with some aspects tracing back to K-pop fandom traditions.
"K-pop fandom culture, especially centred around young women in their teens and 20s, is now being applied to political rallies," – Kim.
Young Koreans have adapted the use of idol light sticks—once symbols of musical devotion—into tools for political expression.
"Even though these idol lightsticks are expensive… people are bringing their most precious possessions to express their opinions," – Hong Gayeong.
The number of wreaths delivered to government offices is estimated to be several thousand, with some flower shops becoming focal points for the movement. These shops have reported receiving hundreds of orders for wreaths, prompting concerns about flower supply shortages.
"We’ve sent out so many wreaths that Seoul is running out of flowers," – Yoon Miyoung.
Despite its peaceful nature, this protest method has not been without criticism. Many wreaths utilize inexpensive materials that pose environmental concerns.
"Most wreaths use cheap, non-environmentally friendly materials that neither help flower farmers nor the environment," – Kim.
Moreover, the messages on these wreaths have evolved into a form of offline hate speech.
"While wreaths avoid physical violence, the messages on funeral wreaths have evolved into a form of offline hate speech, similar to malicious online comments but now decorated with flowers," – Choi Hang-sub.
The origins of this protest method remain unclear; however, news articles began chronicling its emergence in the early 2010s. Over time, the types of flowers and messages have diversified, with some shops emphasizing political neutrality in their sales.
"Even though the form remains the same, the types of flowers or the messages differ," – Choi Hang-sub.
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