The Economist: "South Korea's Democracy Remains Unshaken" ... Named as a 'Country of the Year' Candidate

South Korea Praised for Overcoming a Severe Crisis of Democracy
Syria, Which Ousted Its Dictator, Ultimately Chosen as Country of the Year

The British weekly magazine The Economist has named South Korea as one of its candidates for “Country of the Year,” praising it as a model nation that overcame a severe crisis of democracy and upheld constitutional order.

Participants at a rally cheering after the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol was passed in the second impeachment vote.

On December 18 (local time), The Economist introduced South Korea as one of its annual “Country of the Year” nominees, a list released ahead of Christmas each year, and highlighted the country’s response following the martial law crisis that broke out in December of last year.

The Economist explained, “One year ago, former President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law and attempted to shut down the National Assembly by mobilizing the military. However, lawmakers, protesters, and institutions stood firm.” The magazine added, “The disgraced former president was put on trial for insurrection this year,” and noted, “In 2025, South Korea recovered from a grave threat to its democracy.”

The Economist also named Brazil and Argentina as candidates for Country of the Year. In Brazil, former President Jair Bolsonaro, who claimed electoral fraud after losing the election and attempted a coup, was sentenced to 27 years in prison by a court last September. The Economist commented, “Brazil suffered through coups for much of the 20th century, but this is the first time the ringleader has been properly punished,” recognizing it as an example of protecting constitutional order.

In Argentina, President Javier Milei drew attention for launching sweeping reforms that led to significant improvements in the economy. The country has seen notable results, including a sharp drop in inflation, a decrease in the poverty rate, and a reduction in the fiscal deficit.

Among the various candidates, The Economist ultimately selected Syria as Country of the Year. Syria ended its civil war after about 14 years, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s dictatorship in December of last year. The Economist assessed that interim President Ahmed Alsarya, who succeeded in taking power, brought about remarkable changes by uniting the country and reviving the economy. The magazine emphasized, “Women are no longer required to wear hijabs or remain at home, and entertainment and alcohol consumption are now permitted. Syria in 2025 is much happier and more peaceful than it was in 2024.” The Economist added, “Around three million Syrians have returned to their homeland, demonstrating their resolve through action rather than words. Our choice, too, goes to Syria.”