Cha Kang-seok, actor and representative of the youth group Hwarangdan, enters his third day of a relay hunger strike in front of the south building of the Jeonggok Building in Jongno-gu, Seoul, ahead of President Yoon Suk-yeol's first-instance verdict. [Photo=Hanmiilbo]

It is the third day since actor Cha Kang-seok, representative of the youth group Hwarangdan, began a relay hunger strike in front of the south building of the Jeonggok Building in Seocho-gu, Seoul, ahead of President Yoon Suk-yeol's first-instance verdict.

The hunger strike relay began on the 9th, and free speeches from youth organizations are continuing.

From Actor on Stage to Social Leader in the Plaza

Regarding the background of this hunger strike, Cha Kang-seok stated, "When a trial becomes politics, it is a problem for the entire nation."

"I believed that when a trial becomes an extension of politics, the damage spreads beyond one person to the entire Republic of Korea. Therefore, I judged it to be a matter that cannot be remained silent about."

He emphasized that he does not view this issue as a matter of a specific politician.

"This trial is not about the individual Yoon Suk-yeol; it is about the extent to which the standards of the rule of law and the separation of powers will be upheld. If it collapses for one person today, it can happen to anyone tomorrow."

In other words, President Yoon Suk-yeol's trial is a "fight to uphold the standards of the system."

There is a reason why he chose to go on a hunger strike, knowing the burden he would have to bear as a celebrity.

"A hunger strike is not an emotional choice but an expression of responsibility. Anyone can shout words. I wanted to show the weight of this issue with my own body."

He added, "While action does not guarantee results, silence leaves nothing behind."

Cha Kang-seok has been an actor active on musical stages. Having interacted with the public through his performances in the theater industry, he has recently participated in public statements on social issues and civic activities.

He notably gained recognition by emceeing the rally for the 'Subeokka National Movement' held at Seoul Station Plaza, leading the proceedings. At the time, he emphasized the participation of the younger generation and played a role in conveying the rally's message.

He is currently active as the chairman of Hwarangdan, a conservative youth organization, leading the organized participation of young people in politics and society. This hunger strike was also planned as a solidarity action by Hwarangdan.

He admitted to having significant internal conflict between his life as a musical actor and his responsibilities as a citizen.

"It would be a lie to say there was no struggle. However, if art ultimately deals with people and the times, I asked myself if it was right to remain completely silent in the face of the era's issues."

"The Hunger Strike is a Choice of Conscience, Regardless of the Outcome"

The most frequently asked question during his hunger strike was simple.

"Why am I sitting here?"

He said he checked to ensure his choice was based on principles, not emotions.

Representative Cha Kang-seok stated, "I feel the social division," and "I have experienced a communication breakdown, as if living in entirely different realities when discussing the same issue. However, the more so, the more we must speak in a restrained manner."

"Criticism is natural in a democratic society. However, I hope for a culture where discussions are based on logic and standards, rather than personal attacks or ridicule. I will accept responsibility for my choice."

He believes that even if the trial's outcome differs from his expectations, the significance of this action will not disappear.

"Regardless of the outcome, I have made a choice that I am not ashamed of before my conscience. Action does not guarantee results, but silence leaves nothing behind."

Finally, he addressed the public in this way. This is also a message to the audiences who love him.

"I am an actor. But at the same time, I am a citizen living in this country. I hope for a society where, even if we have different opinions, we do not see each other as enemies, and where laws and standards stand above emotions. I stand here today with the hope that those standards will not crumble."

Attention is focused on what ripple effects Cha Kang-seok's actions will have on President Yoon Suk-yeol's first-instance trial, as he has moved from being an actor to the chairman of a youth group and a social leader in public spaces.

The hunger strike in front of the Jeonggok Building and the filibuster by youth groups will continue.

Reporter Lim Yo-hee