Park Chung-hee
Once a decorated military officer, Park Chung-hee ascended to the role of South Korea’s President in 1963, heralding the advent of the Third Republic. His reign transformed the nation into a bustling economic powerhouse, propelling it into the league of developed countries. Yet, his reign was not without controversy. In 1972, under the influence of his ally, President Marcos of the Philippines, he orchestrated a self-coup. This was followed by a ruthless campaign in 1975, where he ordered the eviction of homeless people from Seoul’s streets. Thousands were captured and shipped off to forced labor camps, with many succumbing to torture.
On the chilling autumn day of October 26th, 1979, a shocking twist of fate befell Park. His life was abruptly extinguished by the hand of his closest confidant, Kim Jae-gyu, the head honcho of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency. Not content with just eliminating Park, Kim and his henchmen cold-bloodedly eliminated several of Park’s loyal bodyguards as well, ensuring that no stone was left unturned in their bloody coup.