The Mystic Predictor in South Korea's Political Fray
Anticipation runs high among shamanic factions regarding South Korea's political future: discord prevails
South Korea's upcoming presidential elections on March 9th may leave voters in suspense, but Shaman Yang Su-bong claims she saw the winning candidate in a vision years ago – a prediction that aligns with virtually every major opinion poll.
With Yoon Suk-yeol's disastrous declaration of martial law last December triggering this snap vote, the nation awaits the Liberal frontrunner Lee Jae-myung for a potential win, as per Yang's divine vision.
The latest Gallup survey shows 49 percent of respondents favouring Lee, while Kim Moon-soo from the conservative People Power Party (PPP) lags behind at 35 percent.
"From day one, I've seen Lee Jae-myung becoming president," proclaimed Yang, stating that she saw "a presidential vibe" and faced criticism and threats for her prediction. "I can't fake what I see."
Traditional Korean mudang, or shamans, have powerfully shaped cultural beliefs on the Korean peninsula for centuries. Over 300,000 active shamans still live in the country, offering guidance on personal matters and significant business decisions [Enrichment Data].
South Korea, however, has seen its folk religion under scrutiny due to allegations of undue influence in past impeachments. In 2017, former President Park Geun-hye was removed from office in an influence-peddling scandal, which involved claims of participation in shamanistic rituals [Enrichment Data].
Ex-leader Yoon and his first lady, Kim Keon-hee, have also faced accusations of relying on questionable shamans when making critical decisions – including Yoon's fateful martial call.
Claims like these prompt a strong emotional reaction in South Korean society, due to the history of powerful leaders swayed by shrewd spiritual advisors [Enrichment Data]. Shamanic themes offer a potent tool for political dramatization.
During elaborate "gut" ceremonies, deities are communicated with through cacophonous music, singing, and prayers, warding off evil spirits or seeking a bountiful harvest. Recent hit thrillers, such as last year's Exhuma, have increased public interest [Enrichment Data].
Social media platforms like YouTube have even become a space for shamans to offer advice via livestreaming and video calls. Shaman Lee Dong-hyeon, who styles himself as Ohbangdoryeong ("guardian of the five directions"), claims to have predicted Yoon's downfall three years ago.
"To become truly great, one must learn to shoulder burdens," Ohbangdoryeong said, stating that Yoon lacks the destiny [Enrichment Data].
Reflecting on Lee's perceived victory, he added, "Despite his age, he lacks judgment."
As Ohbangdoryeon lurks in the shadows, foretelling doom, another shaman, Hong Myeong-hui, sees a stormy future ahead. She describes Lee's energy as consuming and frantic, likening his term to a wildfire that will engulf the country [Enrichment Data].
Predictions aside, the new president will face significant economic hurdles, as South Korea contends with steep tariffs from the United States and sluggish domestic demand.
Prophecy may not provide solace for the weary, but it offers an intriguing glimpse into the hearts and minds of the South Korean people. As democracy unfolds, the country remains poised on the precipice of change, its future as unpredictable as the murky realm of the spirits.
Political speculation in South Korea has been further ignited by the claims of Shaman Yang Su-bong, who predicted Lee Jae-myung's presidency in a vision years ago, aligning with general news polls. Additionally, shaman Ohbangdoryeon foretells Yoon Suk-yeol's downfall, adding another layer to the general-news narrative of political intrigue in South Korea.
