As criticism of the Yusin system grew, the government issued a series of emergency decrees, and political cases such as the Mincheonghangnyeon (National Democratic Youth and Student League) affair followed. On August 15—the day Seoul's first subway line opened—First Lady Yuk Young-soo was shot and killed at the Liberation Day ceremony. Prices rose sharply in the wake of the oil shock.
The year in Korea
JanEmergency Decree No. 1, banning any call to amend the Yusin Constitution, was proclaimed. [Source]
AprSome 180 people linked to the National Democratic Youth and Student League were arrested and indicted under emergency decrees. [Source]
AugSeoul Subway Line 1, linking Seoul Station and Cheongnyangni, opened as the country's first subway. [Source]
AugFirst Lady Yuk Young-soo was killed by gunman Mun Se-gwang at the Liberation Day ceremony. [Source]
DecAfter advertisers mass-cancelled their contracts under government pressure, the Dong-A Ilbo began running blank ad spaces. [Source]
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Around the world
AugU.S. President Richard Nixon resigned over the Watergate scandal. [Source]
Songs, shows & trends
Film
Lee Jang-ho – “Heavenly Homecoming to Stars” — Adapted from Choi In-ho's novel, it set a box-office record at the time. [Source]
Sports
Hong Soo-hwan wins the WBA bantamweight title — His win in South Africa set off celebrations across the country. [Source]
Gadgets & services
Orion “Choco Pie” — Launched in 1974, it became a national snack favorite. [Source]
Year League: the best year
Sources
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