{"content_id":"ulfrlj8sq7","slug":"june-democratic-uprising-1987-direct-presidential-election","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"1987 June Democratic Struggle: Direct Election Amendment","summary":"The June Democratic Struggle was a nationwide pro-democracy movement in 1987 in which citizens opposed the move to retain the existing constitution and state violence. Growing public participation led to the acceptance of direct presidential elections. The constitutional amendment later went through a referendum and was promulgated.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["The 4·13 measure to retain the existing constitution was intended to maintain indirect presidential elections.","The exposure of the cover-up in the Park Jong-chul case intensified calls for accountability for state violence.","The 6·10 National Rally's action guidelines offered ways to take part even outside the rally site.","The nationwide June uprising led to the 6·29 Declaration's promise of a constitutional amendment to introduce direct presidential elections.","The constitutional amendment was confirmed in a referendum on October 27, 1987."],"content_markdown":"The June Democratic Struggle was a nationwide movement for democracy in which citizens opposed the policy of keeping the existing constitution and state violence in 1987. As participation in rallies and everyday acts of protest grew, the movement secured a promise to amend the constitution to allow direct presidential elections. It is remembered as an event in which citizens’ demands changed how the president was elected.\n\nRecords from the Korea Democracy Foundation and the National Institute of Korean History were compared in October 2026.\n\n## Why people opposed the April 13 measure to keep the existing constitution\n\nThe April 13 measure set out a policy of electing the next president under the existing constitution. At the time, the constitution provided for an indirect election in which a presidential electoral college chose the president. Citizens and opposition parties demanding a constitutional amendment for direct elections opposed the policy.\n\nDiscussions about amending the constitution had begun before 1987. The ruling party argued for an amendment to introduce a parliamentary system. The opposition’s central demand was that voters elect the president directly. Chun Doo-hwan’s announcement that the existing constitution would be maintained came amid this dispute. [National Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline](https://contents.history.go.kr/mobile/kc/view.do?levelId=kc_i500500)\n\n| Term | Meaning at the time |\n| --- | --- |\n| Keeping the existing constitution | Maintaining the existing constitution |\n| Ending the policy of keeping the existing constitution | A demand to withdraw the April 13 measure and pursue a constitutional amendment |\n| Indirect election | A system in which a presidential electoral college elects the president |\n| Direct election | A system in which voters elect the president directly by ballot |\n\nThe Park Jong-chul case helped spread protests against state violence. Park Jong-chul, a Seoul National University student, died from police torture on January 14, 1987. After the case became known, memorial gatherings and a movement to uncover the truth followed.\n\nOn May 18 of the same year, the cover-up and downplaying of the case were made public. The Catholic Priests’ Association for Justice disclosed them. Demands to hold those responsible for the torture accountable joined the movement against keeping the existing constitution. [Commentary on the “June 10 National Rally Declaration” in *Korean History through Sources*](https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026treeId=020108)\n\n## Timeline of the 1987 struggle and constitutional amendment\n\nThe circumstances behind the struggle developed from January onward, and institutional changes continued after June. June 10 was the day nationwide rallies were held. The amendment introducing direct elections was confirmed by referendum on October 27.\n\n| Date | Event | Confirming record |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| January 14, 1987 | Park Jong-chul died from police torture | National Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline |\n| April 13, 1987 | Chun Doo-hwan announced a policy of keeping the existing constitution | National Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline |\n| May 18, 1987 | The cover-up and downplaying of the Park Jong-chul case were made public | Commentary on the declaration in *Korean History through Sources* |\n| May 27, 1987 | National Movement Headquarters for a Democratic Constitution formed | Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection |\n| June 5, 1987 | Gukbon announced guidelines for action at the National Rally | Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection |\n| June 9, 1987 | Lee Han-yeol was critically injured by a tear gas canister fired by police | National Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline |\n| June 10, 1987 | National Rallies held across the country | Commentary on the declaration in *Korean History through Sources* |\n| June 10 to 15, 1987 | Sit-in at Myeongdong Cathedral continued | Commentary on the declaration in *Korean History through Sources* |\n| June 18, 1987 | Rally to Ban Tear Gas held | Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection |\n| June 26, 1987 | National Peace March held | Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection |\n| June 29, 1987 | Roh Tae-woo announced acceptance of a constitutional amendment for direct elections | National Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline |\n| October 27, 1987 | Constitutional amendment confirmed by referendum | [Korean History Database Chronology of the Republic of Korea](https://db.history.go.kr/id/tcct_1987_10_27_0010) |\n| October 29, 1987 | Ninth amended constitution promulgated | [National Archives of Korea, “Promulgation of Constitutional Amendment”](https://theme.archives.go.kr/next/chronology/archiveDetail.do?evntId=0049318344\u0026flag=1\u0026isPop=Y) |\n| December 16, 1987 | 13th presidential election held by direct vote | [Presidential Archives record of President Roh Tae-woo’s inauguration](https://www.pa.go.kr/online_contents/inauguration/president13.jsp) |\n| February 25, 1988 | Amended constitution took effect | [National Assembly Archives, Constitution of the Republic of Korea](https://archives.nanet.go.kr/upload/namo/files/000003/%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EB%AF%BC%EA%B5%AD%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%28%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%EC%A0%9C10%ED%98%B8%29.pdf) |\n\n## The role of the National Movement Headquarters and its guidelines for action\n\nThe National Movement Headquarters for a Democratic Constitution was a coalition that organized joint action nationwide. It was known by the shortened name Gukbon. It brought together opposition parties, civic groups, religious communities and other groups.\n\nGukbon was formed at Hyanglin Church in Seoul on May 27, 1987. It set June 10 as the date for the National Rally. On the same day, the Democratic Justice Party held its presidential nomination convention. [Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140)\n\nThe “June 10 National Rally Guidelines for Action” gave specific ways to participate. They stated when and where to gather for rallies. They also included ways for people who could not go to a rally site to take part.\n\n| Participation situation | Plan in the guidelines for action |\n| --- | --- |\n| Participation by group and religious denomination | Hold National Rallies after 10 a.m. |\n| Joint rally in Seoul | Gather at the Anglican Cathedral at 6 p.m. |\n| Participation from wherever people were | Sing the national anthem and give three cheers, or observe a moment of silence |\n| Participation by vehicles and religious facilities | Sound car horns and ring bells at temples, cathedrals and churches |\n| Participation in the evening | Turn off lights for 10 minutes starting at 9 p.m. and refuse to watch broadcast news |\n| Encouraging participation in advance | Call people on June 8 and 9 to encourage participation and support one another |\n| National Rallies outside Seoul | Set times and places according to local circumstances and form organizing committees |\n\nThe original document repeatedly asks for nonviolent participation. It also leaves room to adjust times and places by region. This can be understood as an approach to organizing that combined shared guidelines with local autonomy. [Original guidelines for action, Korea Democracy Foundation, registration number 00170898](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/isad/view/00170898)\n\n## How participation expanded from June 10 to 26\n\nThe June struggle grew as citizens continued to participate after the National Rally. The sit-in at Myeongdong Cathedral showed that the movement was continuing. Office workers joined as well, giving rise to the so-called “necktie brigade.”\n\nCitizens joined marches or gave food and drinks to demonstrators. They also sounded car horns to show support. Participation spread beyond students and the established activist groups. [Commentary on the declaration in *Korean History through Sources*](https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026treeId=020108)\n\nLee Han-yeol’s injury from a tear gas canister on June 9 intensified protests. Rallies to ban tear gas were held across the country on June 18. The National Peace March on June 26 brought nationwide resistance together again.\n\nGukbon proposed dates and demands for joint action. Spontaneous demonstrations also continued in many places. Not every action on the ground can therefore be explained as following Gukbon’s instructions. [Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140)\n\n## The difference between the June 29 Declaration and the constitutional amendment for direct elections\n\nThe June 29 Declaration was a political promise to accept a constitutional amendment for direct elections. It was announced by Roh Tae-woo, the Democratic Justice Party’s presidential candidate. The announcement itself did not change the text of the constitution.\n\nAn amendment was then drafted through negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties. The National Assembly passed it on October 12, 1987. **On October 27, 1987**, the amendment was confirmed by referendum. [National Archives of Korea, “Ninth Constitutional Amendment”](https://www.archives.go.kr/next/newsearch/listSubjectDescription.do?id=001439\u0026sitePage=)\n\nThe Chronology of the Republic of Korea records a 93.1% vote in favor in the referendum. This percentage is based on those who voted. It does not mean that 93.1% of all eligible voters voted in favor. [Korean History Database referendum record](https://db.history.go.kr/id/tcct_1987_10_27_0010)\n\n| Stage | Meaning | Date |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Political acceptance | Promise to pursue a constitutional amendment for direct elections | June 29, 1987 |\n| Confirmation by referendum | Approval of the amendment by the people | October 27, 1987 |\n| Promulgation | Official announcement of the confirmed amended constitution | October 29, 1987 |\n| Election held | Voters directly elect the president | December 16, 1987 |\n| Constitution took effect | Effective date set by the supplementary provisions arrived | February 25, 1988 |\n\nThe amended constitution’s supplementary provisions allowed a presidential election before the constitution took effect. The election date therefore preceded the effective date of the constitution. The difference between the dates follows from those provisions. [Constitution of the Republic of Korea, supplementary provisions, Articles 1 and 2](https://archives.nanet.go.kr/upload/namo/files/000003/%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EB%AF%BC%EA%B5%AD%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%28%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%EC%A0%9C10%ED%98%B8%29.pdf)\n\nThe amendment also changed institutions beyond the method of electing the president. It abolished the president’s power to dissolve the National Assembly. It restored the National Assembly’s power to audit state affairs. It also introduced provisions strengthening the protection of fundamental rights. [National Archives of Korea, “Promulgation of Constitutional Amendment”](https://theme.archives.go.kr/next/chronology/archiveDetail.do?evntId=0049318344\u0026flag=1\u0026isPop=Y)\n\n## The date of the guidelines for action and records of their implementation\n\nThe date the guidelines for action were announced must be distinguished from the date of creation listed in the archival catalog. The Gukbon Collection says the guidelines were announced on June 5, 1987. The creation date for registration number 00170898 is listed as June 10, 1987.\n\nThe catalog does not explain why the dates differ. The announcement date should not be changed based on the catalog date alone. The sequence of events and the catalog information for the individual document must be checked together. [Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140), [Detailed archival record for the guidelines for action](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/isad/view/00170898)\n\nThe guidelines for action show what the organizers proposed. They are not evidence that the plan was carried out in every region. Photographs from the sites and records from the day must be compared to assess what participation took place.\n\n## Records and interpretation\n\nThe dates of events, demands made at the time and historical assessments should be read separately. Documents about the same event contain different information depending on their purpose. Figures for the scale of participation vary by source.\n\n### Facts confirmed by the records\n\nThe declaration shows that Gukbon demanded an end to the policy of keeping the existing constitution. The guidelines for action describe how participation was organized. Referendum records and records of the constitution’s promulgation confirm the dates of the institutional changes.\n\n### Shared assessment in historical accounts\n\nPublic historical commentaries describe nationwide citizen participation as a key reason direct elections were accepted. The National Institute of Korean History’s Korean History Timeline focuses on the continuing nationwide demonstrations. The Korea Democracy Foundation addresses both Gukbon’s organizing and the expansion of citizen participation. [Korean History Timeline](https://contents.history.go.kr/mobile/kc/view.do?levelId=kc_i500500), [Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140)\n\n### Where the sources differ\n\nTwo commentaries give different numbers of participating areas on June 26. They cannot readily be combined into one definitive figure. The scope and criteria of the counts need further checking.\n\n| Source | Participating areas listed for June 26, 1987 |\n| --- | --- |\n| National Institute of Korean History commentary on the declaration in *Korean History through Sources* | 37 cities and counties |\n| Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection | 33 cities, counties and towns |\n\nThis difference alone is not enough to conclude that either record is wrong. The two commentaries also use different units for counting areas. Any figure for the total number of participants should likewise be cited with the counting organization and period identified. [Commentary on the declaration](https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026treeId=020108), [Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140)\n\n## What it means for understanding today’s institutions\n\nThe June Democratic Struggle shows how citizens’ demands led to institutional change. Demands made in the streets went through political acceptance and the constitutional amendment process. Direct presidential elections were one result.\n\nProtests against torture and its concealment demanded accountability from state authorities. The amended constitution explicitly required that people be informed of their rights when arrested or detained. It also prohibited licensing and censorship of the press and publications. [National Archives of Korea, “Ninth Constitutional Amendment”](https://www.archives.go.kr/next/newsearch/listSubjectDescription.do?id=001439\u0026sitePage=)\n\nIntroducing direct elections did not mean that every goal of democratization had been achieved. Demands from different parts of society continued, including the Great Workers’ Struggle. Changes to political institutions and the expansion of social rights need to be explained separately. [Korea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection](https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140)\n\n## Frequently asked questions\n\n### Are the June Democratic Struggle and the June 10 Democratic Struggle different events?\n\nThe names generally refer to the same democracy movement. “June 10” emphasizes the date of the nationwide National Rally. The struggle did not end after June 10.\n\n### How do the Park Jong-chul and Lee Han-yeol cases differ?\n\nPark Jong-chul died from police torture in January 1987. Lee Han-yeol was struck by a tear gas canister during a demonstration on June 9 of the same year. The two cases spread protests at different times.\n\n### Are the guidelines for action and the National Rally declaration the same document?\n\nThe guidelines for action and the declaration are documents with different purposes. The guidelines state when and how to participate. The declaration sets out the movement’s demands and position, including its call to end the policy of keeping the existing constitution.\n\n### Did direct elections take effect on the day of the June 29 Declaration?\n\nThe June 29 Declaration was an announcement promising a constitutional amendment for direct elections. The amendment went through a referendum that October. The presidential election was held on December 16.\n\n### Did the introduction of direct elections mean an immediate transfer of power to the opposition?\n\nIntroducing direct elections and transferring power to the opposition are different things. In the December 1987 election, the ruling party’s candidate, Roh Tae-woo, won. The change in the method of election must be distinguished from the election result. [Presidential Archives record of President Roh Tae-woo’s inauguration](https://www.pa.go.kr/online_contents/inauguration/president13.jsp)","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eThe June Democratic Struggle was a nationwide movement for democracy in which citizens opposed the policy of keeping the existing constitution and state violence in 1987. As participation in rallies and everyday acts of protest grew, the movement secured a promise to amend the constitution to allow direct presidential elections. It is remembered as an event in which citizens’ demands changed how the president was elected.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecords from the Korea Democracy Foundation and the National Institute of Korean History were compared in October 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#why-people-opposed-the-april-13-measure-to-keep-the-existing-constitution\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-people-opposed-the-april-13-measure-to-keep-the-existing-constitution\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy people opposed the April 13 measure to keep the existing constitution\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe April 13 measure set out a policy of electing the next president under the existing constitution. At the time, the constitution provided for an indirect election in which a presidential electoral college chose the president. Citizens and opposition parties demanding a constitutional amendment for direct elections opposed the policy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscussions about amending the constitution had begun before 1987. The ruling party argued for an amendment to introduce a parliamentary system. The opposition’s central demand was that voters elect the president directly. Chun Doo-hwan’s announcement that the existing constitution would be maintained came amid this dispute. \u003ca href=\"https://contents.history.go.kr/mobile/kc/view.do?levelId=kc_i500500\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTerm\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning at the time\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Term\"\u003eKeeping the existing constitution\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning at the time\"\u003eMaintaining the existing constitution\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Term\"\u003eEnding the policy of keeping the existing constitution\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning at the time\"\u003eA demand to withdraw the April 13 measure and pursue a constitutional amendment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Term\"\u003eIndirect election\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning at the time\"\u003eA system in which a presidential electoral college elects the president\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Term\"\u003eDirect election\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning at the time\"\u003eA system in which voters elect the president directly by ballot\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Park Jong-chul case helped spread protests against state violence. Park Jong-chul, a Seoul National University student, died from police torture on January 14, 1987. After the case became known, memorial gatherings and a movement to uncover the truth followed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn May 18 of the same year, the cover-up and downplaying of the case were made public. The Catholic Priests’ Association for Justice disclosed them. Demands to hold those responsible for the torture accountable joined the movement against keeping the existing constitution. \u003ca href=\"https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026amp;treeId=020108\"\u003eCommentary on the “June 10 National Rally Declaration” in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#timeline-of-the-1987-struggle-and-constitutional-amendment\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"timeline-of-the-1987-struggle-and-constitutional-amendment\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTimeline of the 1987 struggle and constitutional amendment\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe circumstances behind the struggle developed from January onward, and institutional changes continued after June. June 10 was the day nationwide rallies were held. The amendment introducing direct elections was confirmed by referendum on October 27.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEvent\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eConfirming record\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJanuary 14, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003ePark Jong-chul died from police torture\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eApril 13, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eChun Doo-hwan announced a policy of keeping the existing constitution\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eMay 18, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eThe cover-up and downplaying of the Park Jong-chul case were made public\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eCommentary on the declaration in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eMay 27, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eNational Movement Headquarters for a Democratic Constitution formed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 5, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eGukbon announced guidelines for action at the National Rally\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 9, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eLee Han-yeol was critically injured by a tear gas canister fired by police\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 10, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eNational Rallies held across the country\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eCommentary on the declaration in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 10 to 15, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eSit-in at Myeongdong Cathedral continued\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eCommentary on the declaration in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 18, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eRally to Ban Tear Gas held\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 26, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eNational Peace March held\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 29, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eRoh Tae-woo announced acceptance of a constitutional amendment for direct elections\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History Korean History Timeline\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 27, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eConstitutional amendment confirmed by referendum\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://db.history.go.kr/id/tcct_1987_10_27_0010\"\u003eKorean History Database Chronology of the Republic of Korea\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 29, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eNinth amended constitution promulgated\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theme.archives.go.kr/next/chronology/archiveDetail.do?evntId=0049318344\u0026amp;flag=1\u0026amp;isPop=Y\"\u003eNational Archives of Korea, “Promulgation of Constitutional Amendment”\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eDecember 16, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003e13th presidential election held by direct vote\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.pa.go.kr/online_contents/inauguration/president13.jsp\"\u003ePresidential Archives record of President Roh Tae-woo’s inauguration\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eFebruary 25, 1988\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Event\"\u003eAmended constitution took effect\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Confirming record\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://archives.nanet.go.kr/upload/namo/files/000003/%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EB%AF%BC%EA%B5%AD%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%28%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%EC%A0%9C10%ED%98%B8%29.pdf\"\u003eNational Assembly Archives, Constitution of the Republic of Korea\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-role-of-the-national-movement-headquarters-and-its-guidelines-for-action\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-role-of-the-national-movement-headquarters-and-its-guidelines-for-action\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe role of the National Movement Headquarters and its guidelines for action\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Movement Headquarters for a Democratic Constitution was a coalition that organized joint action nationwide. It was known by the shortened name Gukbon. It brought together opposition parties, civic groups, religious communities and other groups.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGukbon was formed at Hyanglin Church in Seoul on May 27, 1987. It set June 10 as the date for the National Rally. On the same day, the Democratic Justice Party held its presidential nomination convention. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe “June 10 National Rally Guidelines for Action” gave specific ways to participate. They stated when and where to gather for rallies. They also included ways for people who could not go to a rally site to take part.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eParticipation situation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePlan in the guidelines for action\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eParticipation by group and religious denomination\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eHold National Rallies after 10 a.m.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eJoint rally in Seoul\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eGather at the Anglican Cathedral at 6 p.m.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eParticipation from wherever people were\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eSing the national anthem and give three cheers, or observe a moment of silence\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eParticipation by vehicles and religious facilities\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eSound car horns and ring bells at temples, cathedrals and churches\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eParticipation in the evening\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eTurn off lights for 10 minutes starting at 9 p.m. and refuse to watch broadcast news\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eEncouraging participation in advance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eCall people on June 8 and 9 to encourage participation and support one another\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participation situation\"\u003eNational Rallies outside Seoul\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Plan in the guidelines for action\"\u003eSet times and places according to local circumstances and form organizing committees\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original document repeatedly asks for nonviolent participation. It also leaves room to adjust times and places by region. This can be understood as an approach to organizing that combined shared guidelines with local autonomy. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/isad/view/00170898\"\u003eOriginal guidelines for action, Korea Democracy Foundation, registration number 00170898\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-participation-expanded-from-june-10-to-26\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-participation-expanded-from-june-10-to-26\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow participation expanded from June 10 to 26\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe June struggle grew as citizens continued to participate after the National Rally. The sit-in at Myeongdong Cathedral showed that the movement was continuing. Office workers joined as well, giving rise to the so-called “necktie brigade.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCitizens joined marches or gave food and drinks to demonstrators. They also sounded car horns to show support. Participation spread beyond students and the established activist groups. \u003ca href=\"https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026amp;treeId=020108\"\u003eCommentary on the declaration in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLee Han-yeol’s injury from a tear gas canister on June 9 intensified protests. Rallies to ban tear gas were held across the country on June 18. The National Peace March on June 26 brought nationwide resistance together again.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGukbon proposed dates and demands for joint action. Spontaneous demonstrations also continued in many places. Not every action on the ground can therefore be explained as following Gukbon’s instructions. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-difference-between-the-june-29-declaration-and-the-constitutional-amendment-for-direct-elections\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-difference-between-the-june-29-declaration-and-the-constitutional-amendment-for-direct-elections\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe difference between the June 29 Declaration and the constitutional amendment for direct elections\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe June 29 Declaration was a political promise to accept a constitutional amendment for direct elections. It was announced by Roh Tae-woo, the Democratic Justice Party’s presidential candidate. The announcement itself did not change the text of the constitution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn amendment was then drafted through negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties. The National Assembly passed it on October 12, 1987. \u003cstrong\u003eOn October 27, 1987\u003c/strong\u003e, the amendment was confirmed by referendum. \u003ca href=\"https://www.archives.go.kr/next/newsearch/listSubjectDescription.do?id=001439\u0026amp;sitePage=\"\u003eNational Archives of Korea, “Ninth Constitutional Amendment”\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chronology of the Republic of Korea records a 93.1% vote in favor in the referendum. This percentage is based on those who voted. It does not mean that 93.1% of all eligible voters voted in favor. \u003ca href=\"https://db.history.go.kr/id/tcct_1987_10_27_0010\"\u003eKorean History Database referendum record\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003ePolitical acceptance\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003ePromise to pursue a constitutional amendment for direct elections\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eJune 29, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eConfirmation by referendum\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eApproval of the amendment by the people\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 27, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003ePromulgation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eOfficial announcement of the confirmed amended constitution\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 29, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eElection held\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eVoters directly elect the president\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eDecember 16, 1987\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eConstitution took effect\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eEffective date set by the supplementary provisions arrived\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eFebruary 25, 1988\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amended constitution’s supplementary provisions allowed a presidential election before the constitution took effect. The election date therefore preceded the effective date of the constitution. The difference between the dates follows from those provisions. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.nanet.go.kr/upload/namo/files/000003/%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EB%AF%BC%EA%B5%AD%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%28%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%EC%A0%9C10%ED%98%B8%29.pdf\"\u003eConstitution of the Republic of Korea, supplementary provisions, Articles 1 and 2\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amendment also changed institutions beyond the method of electing the president. It abolished the president’s power to dissolve the National Assembly. It restored the National Assembly’s power to audit state affairs. It also introduced provisions strengthening the protection of fundamental rights. \u003ca href=\"https://theme.archives.go.kr/next/chronology/archiveDetail.do?evntId=0049318344\u0026amp;flag=1\u0026amp;isPop=Y\"\u003eNational Archives of Korea, “Promulgation of Constitutional Amendment”\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-date-of-the-guidelines-for-action-and-records-of-their-implementation\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-date-of-the-guidelines-for-action-and-records-of-their-implementation\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe date of the guidelines for action and records of their implementation\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe date the guidelines for action were announced must be distinguished from the date of creation listed in the archival catalog. The Gukbon Collection says the guidelines were announced on June 5, 1987. The creation date for registration number 00170898 is listed as June 10, 1987.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe catalog does not explain why the dates differ. The announcement date should not be changed based on the catalog date alone. The sequence of events and the catalog information for the individual document must be checked together. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eGukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/isad/view/00170898\"\u003eDetailed archival record for the guidelines for action\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe guidelines for action show what the organizers proposed. They are not evidence that the plan was carried out in every region. Photographs from the sites and records from the day must be compared to assess what participation took place.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#records-and-interpretation\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"records-and-interpretation\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eRecords and interpretation\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dates of events, demands made at the time and historical assessments should be read separately. Documents about the same event contain different information depending on their purpose. Figures for the scale of participation vary by source.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#facts-confirmed-by-the-records\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"facts-confirmed-by-the-records\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFacts confirmed by the records\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe declaration shows that Gukbon demanded an end to the policy of keeping the existing constitution. The guidelines for action describe how participation was organized. Referendum records and records of the constitution’s promulgation confirm the dates of the institutional changes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#shared-assessment-in-historical-accounts\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"shared-assessment-in-historical-accounts\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eShared assessment in historical accounts\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublic historical commentaries describe nationwide citizen participation as a key reason direct elections were accepted. The National Institute of Korean History’s Korean History Timeline focuses on the continuing nationwide demonstrations. The Korea Democracy Foundation addresses both Gukbon’s organizing and the expansion of citizen participation. \u003ca href=\"https://contents.history.go.kr/mobile/kc/view.do?levelId=kc_i500500\"\u003eKorean History Timeline\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eGukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#where-the-sources-differ\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"where-the-sources-differ\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhere the sources differ\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo commentaries give different numbers of participating areas on June 26. They cannot readily be combined into one definitive figure. The scope and criteria of the counts need further checking.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSource\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eParticipating areas listed for June 26, 1987\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Source\"\u003eNational Institute of Korean History commentary on the declaration in \u003cem\u003eKorean History through Sources\u003c/em\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participating areas listed for June 26, 1987\"\u003e37 cities and counties\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Source\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Participating areas listed for June 26, 1987\"\u003e33 cities, counties and towns\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis difference alone is not enough to conclude that either record is wrong. The two commentaries also use different units for counting areas. Any figure for the total number of participants should likewise be cited with the counting organization and period identified. \u003ca href=\"https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026amp;treeId=020108\"\u003eCommentary on the declaration\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eGukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-it-means-for-understanding-todays-institutions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-it-means-for-understanding-todays-institutions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat it means for understanding today’s institutions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe June Democratic Struggle shows how citizens’ demands led to institutional change. Demands made in the streets went through political acceptance and the constitutional amendment process. Direct presidential elections were one result.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProtests against torture and its concealment demanded accountability from state authorities. The amended constitution explicitly required that people be informed of their rights when arrested or detained. It also prohibited licensing and censorship of the press and publications. \u003ca href=\"https://www.archives.go.kr/next/newsearch/listSubjectDescription.do?id=001439\u0026amp;sitePage=\"\u003eNational Archives of Korea, “Ninth Constitutional Amendment”\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing direct elections did not mean that every goal of democratization had been achieved. Demands from different parts of society continued, including the Great Workers’ Struggle. Changes to political institutions and the expansion of social rights need to be explained separately. \u003ca href=\"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140\"\u003eKorea Democracy Foundation Gukbon Collection\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#are-the-june-democratic-struggle-and-the-june-10-democratic-struggle-different-events\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"are-the-june-democratic-struggle-and-the-june-10-democratic-struggle-different-events\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAre the June Democratic Struggle and the June 10 Democratic Struggle different events?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe names generally refer to the same democracy movement. “June 10” emphasizes the date of the nationwide National Rally. The struggle did not end after June 10.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-do-the-park-jong-chul-and-lee-han-yeol-cases-differ\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-do-the-park-jong-chul-and-lee-han-yeol-cases-differ\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow do the Park Jong-chul and Lee Han-yeol cases differ?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePark Jong-chul died from police torture in January 1987. Lee Han-yeol was struck by a tear gas canister during a demonstration on June 9 of the same year. The two cases spread protests at different times.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#are-the-guidelines-for-action-and-the-national-rally-declaration-the-same-document\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"are-the-guidelines-for-action-and-the-national-rally-declaration-the-same-document\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAre the guidelines for action and the National Rally declaration the same document?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe guidelines for action and the declaration are documents with different purposes. The guidelines state when and how to participate. The declaration sets out the movement’s demands and position, including its call to end the policy of keeping the existing constitution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#did-direct-elections-take-effect-on-the-day-of-the-june-29-declaration\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"did-direct-elections-take-effect-on-the-day-of-the-june-29-declaration\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDid direct elections take effect on the day of the June 29 Declaration?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe June 29 Declaration was an announcement promising a constitutional amendment for direct elections. The amendment went through a referendum that October. The presidential election was held on December 16.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#did-the-introduction-of-direct-elections-mean-an-immediate-transfer-of-power-to-the-opposition\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"did-the-introduction-of-direct-elections-mean-an-immediate-transfer-of-power-to-the-opposition\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDid the introduction of direct elections mean an immediate transfer of power to the opposition?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing direct elections and transferring power to the opposition are different things. In the December 1987 election, the ruling party’s candidate, Roh Tae-woo, won. The change in the method of election must be distinguished from the election result. \u003ca href=\"https://www.pa.go.kr/online_contents/inauguration/president13.jsp\"\u003ePresidential Archives record of President Roh Tae-woo’s inauguration\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Modern Korean history","Democratization movement"],"faqs":[{"question":"What was the June Democratic Struggle?","answer":"It was a nationwide pro-democracy movement against efforts to preserve the existing constitution and against state violence in 1987. The citizens' protests led to the acceptance of a constitutional amendment introducing direct presidential elections."},{"question":"What did the April 13 measure to preserve the existing constitution seek to maintain?","answer":"It sought to maintain the indirect presidential election system under the existing constitution. It faced demands from citizens and opposition parties for a constitutional amendment to allow direct presidential elections."},{"question":"What impact did the exposure of the cover-up of the Park Jong-cheol case have?","answer":"The cover-up and downplaying of the case were made public on May 18, 1987. Demands to hold those responsible for state violence accountable joined the movement opposing efforts to preserve the existing constitution."},{"question":"What was the National Movement Headquarters for a Democratic Constitution?","answer":"It was a coalition of pro-democracy groups formed on May 27, 1987. Opposition parties, dissident groups, and religious organizations were among its participants. It organized nationwide public rallies."},{"question":"What did the guidelines for the June 10 National Rally cover?","answer":"They specified the time and place of the rally and ways to participate nonviolently. They also suggested ways to take part from outside the rally sites, such as honking car horns, ringing bells at religious facilities, and turning off lights."},{"question":"Are the date the guidelines were announced and the date in the archival record listing the same?","answer":"The National Movement Headquarters collection gives the announcement date as June 5, 1987. The production date for archival record registration number 00170898 is listed as June 10. The listing does not explain the difference between the two dates."},{"question":"How many localities took part in the June 26 National Peace March?","answer":"The National Institute of Korean History's commentary on the declaration lists 37 cities and counties. The Korea Democracy Foundation's National Movement Headquarters collection records 33 cities, counties, and towns. When citing these figures, the source and the unit of counting should be stated."},{"question":"How did the June 29 Declaration differ from the constitutional amendment?","answer":"The June 29 Declaration was a political promise to accept a constitutional amendment introducing direct presidential elections. The proposed amendment was approved in a referendum on October 27, 1987. The revised constitution was promulgated on October 29."},{"question":"What does the 93.1% vote in favor in the 1987 constitutional referendum mean?","answer":"It is the percentage in favor among those who voted. It does not mean that 93.1% of all eligible voters voted in favor."},{"question":"Why was the presidential election held before the revised constitution took effect?","answer":"Because the supplementary provisions of the revised constitution allowed a presidential election before it took effect. The election was held on December 16, 1987. The constitution took effect on February 25, 1988."},{"question":"Did the introduction of direct presidential elections immediately bring the opposition to power?","answer":"The ruling party's candidate, Roh Tae-woo, won the 1987 presidential election. The introduction of direct presidential elections should be distinguished from a transfer of power to the opposition."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/isad/view/00170898","title":"Korea Democracy Foundation Open Archive, 6.10 National Rally Guidelines for Action","type":"source"},{"url":"https://archives.kdemo.or.kr/collections/view/10000140","title":"Korea Democracy Foundation Open Archive, National Movement Headquarters for the Achievement of a Democratic Constitution","type":"source"},{"url":"https://contents.history.go.kr/mobile/kc/view.do?levelId=kc_i500500","title":"National Institute of Korean History Korean History Chronology, June 1987 Democratic Struggle","type":"source"},{"url":"https://contents.history.go.kr/front/hm/print.do?levelId=hm_151_0040\u0026treeId=020108","title":"National Institute of Korean History Korean History Through Historical Sources, Declaration and Commentary on the 6·10 National Rally","type":"source"},{"url":"https://db.history.go.kr/id/tcct_1987_10_27_0010","title":"National Institute of Korean History Chronology of the Republic of Korea, October 27, 1987 Constitutional Amendment Referendum","type":"data_point"},{"url":"https://www.archives.go.kr/next/newsearch/listSubjectDescription.do?id=001439\u0026sitePage=","title":"National Archives of Korea Thematic Explanations by Area of Government Administration, Ninth Constitutional Amendment","type":"source"},{"url":"https://theme.archives.go.kr/next/chronology/archiveDetail.do?evntId=0049318344\u0026flag=1\u0026isPop=Y","title":"National Archives of Korea Chronology and Records, Promulgation of the Constitutional Amendment","type":"source"},{"url":"https://archives.nanet.go.kr/upload/namo/files/000003/%EB%8C%80%ED%95%9C%EB%AF%BC%EA%B5%AD%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%28%ED%97%8C%EB%B2%95%EC%A0%9C10%ED%98%B8%29.pdf","title":"National Assembly Archives, Constitution of the Republic of Korea, Constitution No. 10","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.pa.go.kr/online_contents/inauguration/president13.jsp","title":"Presidential Archives, Records of the Inauguration of the 13th President Roh Tae-woo","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":2016,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MzEwMjAsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--924d3a5e8345bcc4b30f999fbf59093b79f1f8f5/ai-8fc9b77c.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"해질녘 서울 도심, 시민들이 차들 사이로 성공회 성당을 향해 걷는 모습을 그린 그림","caption":"6월 항쟁에 참여가 확대되면서 대통령 직선제 개헌 약속을 이끌어냈다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Painted view of crowds walking past cars toward a cathedral in Seoul at dusk","caption":"Growing participation in the June uprising helped secure a promise to amend the constitution for direct presidential elections.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"夕暮れのソウルで、車の間を通り聖堂へ向かう市民を描いた絵","caption":"6月抗争への参加の広がりが、大統領直接選挙に向けた改憲の約束を引き出した。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Ilustración de una multitud que camina entre coches hacia una catedral de Seúl al atardecer","caption":"La creciente participación en el levantamiento de junio impulsó la promesa de reformar la Constitución para elegir directamente al presidente.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Lukisan kerumunan warga berjalan melewati mobil menuju katedral di Seoul saat senja","caption":"Meluasnya partisipasi dalam gerakan Juni mendorong janji amendemen konstitusi untuk pemilihan presiden secara langsung.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Pintura de uma multidão caminhando entre carros rumo a uma catedral em Seul ao entardecer","caption":"A participação crescente no levante de junho ajudou a obter a promessa de uma emenda constitucional para a eleição direta do presidente.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"黃昏時分，首爾民眾穿過車輛走向大教堂的繪畫","caption":"六月抗爭的參與擴大，促成了修憲實施總統直選的承諾。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Gemalte Straßenszene mit Menschen, die in Seoul bei Dämmerung zwischen Autos zu einer Kathedrale gehen","caption":"Die wachsende Beteiligung am Juni-Aufstand trug zur Zusage einer Verfassungsänderung für die direkte Präsidentenwahl bei.","description":null}}},{"id":2017,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MzEwMjYsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--be0372613ffc0d0f871cdb4edadfb94020cba2cc/ai-ed36dd54.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"가을날 학교 교정에서 투표소로 줄지어 들어가는 유권자들, 교실 안에는 기표소와 투표함이 보인다.","caption":"직선제 개헌안은 1987년 10월 27일 국민투표로 확정됐다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Voters queue across a school courtyard toward a polling room with voting booths and a ballot box.","caption":"The constitutional amendment was approved by referendum on October 27, 1987.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"秋の小学校の校庭を通り、投票所へ列をなす有権者たち。室内には記入台と投票箱が見える。","caption":"憲法改正案は1987年10月27日の国民投票で確定した。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Votantes hacen fila en el patio de una escuela hacia un aula con cabinas y una urna electoral.","caption":"La reforma constitucional quedó ratificada en el referéndum del 27 de octubre de 1987.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pemilih mengantre melintasi halaman sekolah menuju ruang pemungutan suara dengan bilik dan kotak suara.","caption":"Amandemen konstitusi disahkan melalui referendum pada 27 Oktober 1987.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Eleitores fazem fila no pátio de uma escola rumo a uma sala com cabines de votação e urna.","caption":"A emenda constitucional foi aprovada em referendo em 27 de outubro de 1987.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"選民穿過秋日的學校庭院，排隊走向設有投票隔間和票箱的教室。","caption":"修憲案於1987年10月27日經公民投票確定。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Wähler stehen auf einem Schulhof vor einem Wahllokal Schlange; drinnen sind Wahlkabinen und eine Urne zu sehen.","caption":"Die Verfassungsänderung wurde am 27. Oktober 1987 durch eine Volksabstimmung bestätigt.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-21T15:01:30+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-21T15:01:30+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/june-democratic-uprising-1987-direct-presidential-election"}