In the February general election, the newly founded New Korea Democratic Party emerged as the main opposition, amplifying calls for direct presidential elections. In September, hometown visiting groups of separated families traveled between Seoul and Pyongyang for the first time since the division. Labor and student activism intensified, with the Guro solidarity strike and the occupation of the U.S. Cultural Center in Seoul.
The year in Korea
FebIn the 12th National Assembly elections, the New Korea Democratic Party became the leading opposition party. [Source]
MaySeventy-three university students occupied the U.S. Cultural Center in Seoul for three days. [Source]
JunLabor unions in the Guro Industrial Complex staged a joint solidarity strike. [Source]
SepFor the first time since the division, hometown visiting groups of separated families crossed between Seoul and Pyongyang. [Source]
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Around the world
MarMikhail Gorbachev became general secretary of the Soviet Communist Party. [Source]
SepThe G5 nations announced the Plaza Accord to rein in the strong dollar. [Source]
Songs, shows & trends
Music
Deulgukhwa – debut album — Featuring “That's My Only World” and “March,” it is hailed as a landmark Korean rock album. [Source]
Lee Moon-sae – third album — The smash hit “I Still Don't Know” launched Lee's golden era. [Source]
TV
KBS “Gayo Stage” — The long-running music show devoted to classic Korean songs premiered. [Source]
Year League: the best year
Sources
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