August 27, 1980 (Wed.) The 11th Presidential Election

Since new military forces centering on Chun, Doo-hwan came into power through a military coup on December 12, 1979, President Choi, Gyu-ha stood down after eight months in office. The 11th election was held on August 27, 1980. The military forces declared martial law across the nation on May 17 to ban all kinds of political activities. Under such circumstances, the 11th presidential election was no more than a formality to give legitimacy and authority as government to the new military group led by Chun, Doo-hwan, Standing Commissioner of the National Security Commission. The new military forces attempted to create a social mood for Chun to be nominated presidential candidate by mobilizing the national security team and National Council for Unification. In the end, Mr. Chun became the only candidate. An indirect election was held by the National Council for Unification and Chun received an overwhelming support from all voters, 2,524 out of 2,525, excluding one invalid voteto become the 11th president.