From authoritarianism to democracy: A comparative study of political transition in Indonesia and South Korea

Abstract

Political transitions from authoritarianism to democracy in Indonesia and South Korea have generated significant institutional reforms; however, democratic consolidation remains challenging. This study comparatively examines the political and institutional trajectories of democratization in both countries and identifies lessons for strengthening democratic governance in the Philippines. Using a normative legal and comparative approach, this study analyzes constitutional reforms, electoral systems, civil-military relations, democratic institutions, public participation, transparency, accountability, and media freedom through primary legal materials and relevant scholarly literature. The findings show that Indonesia has strengthened democratic institutions through constitutional reform, decentralization, electoral competition, and civil society participation but still faces elite dominance, political fragmentation, patronage, money politics, and challenges to institutional accountability. South Korea demonstrates stronger electoral governance, judicial oversight, and institutional accountability, although political polarization, corporate influence, and declining institutional trust remain a concern. This study concludes demonstrates that democratic consolidation requires not only constitutional and institutional reform but also a democratic political culture, institutional integrity, effective accountability, and sustained civic participation. Indonesia can draw lessons from South Korea’s institutional accountability, while South Korea can learn from Indonesia’s decentralization and grassroots participation.