"All political articles deleted… Please post only content suitable for the café."
The day after former President Yoon Seok-youl was impeached by the Constitutional Court, South Korean history instructor Jeon Han-gil (55) suddenly announced that he had "removed all political articles" and hinted at a return to his teaching activities.
Once a ‘top instructor’ in Korean history earning 6 billion won annually and at the center of controversy for his far-right political stance, Jeon’s remarks seem to indicate a return to his primary role within the student community.
On the morning of the 5th, Jeon posted in the ‘Korean History Café’ with the title "This is Han-gil. Today's national civil service 9th grade summary and accuracy" and mentioned, "The explanatory lecture is scheduled to be uploaded around tonight." He added, "All political articles unrelated to the nature of our café have been deleted, and I ask that only content appropriate for the café’s nature be posted in the future."
Jeon, who had made political statements in the student community, came under scrutiny during the impeachment proceedings against former President Yoon Seok-youl in January when he suddenly mentioned the possibility of martial law and expressed agreement with allegations of election fraud. Criticism of him continued within the café, with some pointing out that "his far-right claims disrupt the café's atmosphere."
The day after the impeachment, he appealed for support on YouTube, stating, "In order for conservatism to win, we need to hold rallies and support the youth."
On the 14th of last month, after mentioning that there were several posts saying “I’m leaving,” he paused his activities before this new post indicating a return to the teaching scene. One member expressed hope right after the impeachment, asking, "Are you teaching again next year, Han-gil?"
However, there are differing interpretations regarding Jeon's claim that he had "removed all political articles," with some wondering whether he deleted his own posts or organized those of other members. On the 4th, after the impeachment ruling, Jeon appeared to be shocked during a YouTube live broadcast where he stated, "The conservative right must also hold rallies and support the youth," and requested funding.
He then added, "A lot of campaign funds are needed," hinting at fundraising for direct political activities.
When a media outlet criticized him for asking for political funds after being a high-earning instructor, the online media outlet 'Jeon Han-gil News' he operates responded, arguing, "Jeon Han-gil has earned over 18 billion won in the last three years and paid taxes amounting to 2.7 billion won annually," and revealed, "In December 2024, he is expected to sign a new long-term contract worth 6 billion won."
"It's not for money… The goal is to establish a conservative right think tank."
'Jeon Han-gil News' also refuted, "Interpreting Jeon Han-gil's venture into politics as being financially motivated is absurd." They emphasized, "His political participation aims to build a conservative civil society base, and the ultimate goal is to create a think tank like the Heritage Foundation in the U.S. to nurture talents in law, politics, and civic movements."
It remains uncertain whether Jeon will continue his political activities or return to his primary role as a Korean history instructor. However, it is clear that each of his remarks continues to generate significant impact beyond the classroom.
Image source: Korean history instructor Jeon Han-gil / YouTube 'Flower than Jeon Han-gil', News1, YouTube 'Jeon Han-gil News'.
