Democracy in Motion: The Advancement of Democracy in Korea and the Students at the Frontline

Nearly eighty years have passed since the establishment of the Republic of Korea in the South and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the North in 1948. This exhibit features selected library collections that trace the history and major milestones of Korean democracy, with particular attention to the vital role of student movements.

At pivotal moments in modern Korean history, students stood at the forefront of resistance to authoritarian rule and military oppression. Their activism became a powerful force in the pursuit of political freedom and contributed significantly to the advancement of democracy in Korea. Spanning the period from Korea’s first president, Syngman Rhee, to current president Lee Jae-myung, this exhibit invites visitors to reflect on Korea’s long, complex, and ongoing journey toward democratization. 

Presented by the library in conjunction with Democracy Week at Michigan and in collaboration with the Nam Center for Korean Studies.

Third Thursdays at the Library is a themed monthly open house where we share materials from our collections. While you’re here, pick up a passport and collect a stamp from each of this month's Third Thursday locations — Asia Library, Clark Library, International Studies, and the Special Collections Research Center — to win a prize!