
From bulk-buying books about Yoon to 'Eradicate communism' merchandise
Amid the ongoing political turmoil surrounding suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol, his supporters are rallying around a new narrative: opening their wallets to show support.
Books supporting Yoon, particularly those alleging election fraud, suddenly topped South Korea’s bestseller lists. According to online sales rankings from Kyobo Bookstore and Yes24 as of Wednesday, multiple pro-Yoon books ranked among the top-selling publications.
One of the most prominent titles, with the English title, "Stop the Steal," co-authored by four lawyers involved in an election fraud lawsuit contesting the results of the 2020 general election in Incheon’s Yeonsu constituency, was in the No. 1 spot Wednesday. Others include "The Path of Yoon Suk Yeol," (direct translation) a collection of photographs of Yoon, and "Still, Yoon Suk Yeol," (direct translation) written by Yoon’s legal representative, Seok Dong-hyun.
Supporters have been actively encouraging purchases through social media and online communities. Many have posted screenshots of their receipts, urging others to buy the books in bulk. With an unprecedentedly high 9.9 for a book review, many comments said they bought more than one copy. “One for myself, one for my parents, and one to force my left-leaning friend to read,” a comment read. Others argued that reading and studying the content would help “enlighten” the public. Some online fan communities have also hosted book giveaways to increase circulation.
The book, "Stop the Steal" centers on the lawsuit filed by former lawmaker Min Kyung-wook, who contested the results of the 2020 general election in Incheon’s Yeonsu constituency. However, Korea's Supreme Court rejected the case in 2022, citing the lack of evidence and emphasizing the logistical impossibility of executing large-scale election fraud without being detected.
The ruling stated, “For election fraud to be carried out covertly under the watchful eyes of numerous observers, it would require advanced hacking capabilities, a large-scale organization and substantial funding. However, the plaintiff has failed to present any proof of such a scheme despite over two years of legal proceedings.”

The "Stop the Steal" slogan has also been repurposed for political merchandise -- from hats and stickers to pins and bags -- with many expressing pride in wearing the items to political rallies. Some have described these items as “historically significant” and essential for protests.
"Eradicate communism" is also another slogan used on merchandise, ranging from everyday items such as aprons to mittens and scarves.
The phenomenon of political fan communities influencing book sales and other purchases is not new in South Korea. During former President Park Geun-hye’s incarceration in 2021, her supporters made her prison letters a bestseller. Similarly, supporters of main opposition party Chair Rep. Lee Jae-myung and former President Moon Jae-in have previously driven mass purchases of books by fans.