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K-Pop Star eaJ Park Speaks Out on Indonesia's Controversial Military Law Amid Protests

Journalist Note March 23, 2025
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K-Pop Star eaJ Park Speaks Out on Indonesia's Controversial Military Law Amid Protests

  • International Solidarity: eaJ Park Prays for Indonesia

  • In a show of solidarity with the people of Indonesia, South Korean musician eaJ Park has taken to social media to share his prayers and support during the turbulent political climate following the recent enactment of Draft Law No. 34 (2024) concerning the Indonesian National Armed Forces, often referred to as the TNI Law. On March 20, 2025, this controversial law was passed by the Indonesian Parliament, sparking widespread protests both domestically and internationally. Park, formerly a member of the K-Pop group DAY6, expressed his concern over the military's increased involvement in civilian governance through heartfelt posts on his social media platforms, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Notably, he responded to a tweet from Indonesian singer Baskara Putra, stating, 'Prayers out to Indonesia. Stay strong.' This message resonated with many, highlighting the global attention that the political unrest in Indonesia has garnered.

  • Understanding the TNI Law: A Step Back for Democracy?

  • The enactment of the TNI Law marks a significant shift in Indonesia's political landscape, with critics arguing that it threatens the democratic principles established after the fall of Suharto's authoritarian regime. The amended law allows active military personnel to hold civilian positions in 14 different government departments, expanding from the previous limitations which confined them to only 10 security-related institutions. The law has raised alarms among pro-democracy activists and human rights organizations, who fear that this represents a return to the dual-functionality model—a relic of Indonesia's past where the military wielded considerable power over civilian affairs. Activists argue that this could lead to human rights abuses and erode public trust in the government, as historical precedents from Suharto's era remind them of the consequences of military involvement in civil governance.

  • Public Response: Protests Erupt Against the Legislative Move

  • Following the law's passage, thousands of Indonesians have taken to the streets, demonstrating against the perceived overreach of military powers into civilian life. Protests erupted in key cities, with participants voicing their concerns that the military's expanding role threatens the very essence of Indonesia's democracy. Students and civil society groups organized rallies outside the parliament, holding banners with statements like 'Reject TNI law, send TNI back to the barracks.' The demonstrations were met with heavy police presence, and activists have highlighted the ongoing need for transparency and public participation in government decisions. The fast-tracked nature of the legislative process, criticized for sidelining public debate, further intensified the public's resolve to challenge the amendments, underscoring an urgent call for accountability and reform.

  • eaJ Park's Ongoing Advocacy for Indonesian Democracy

  • eaJ Park's engagement in supporting the Indonesian people's plight is not new. Previously, in August 2024, he had also voiced his concern regarding protests against the revision of the Regional Head Election Law, further solidifying his commitment to raising awareness about political issues in Indonesia. His advocacy on social media serves not only to express solidarity but also to amplify the voices of those fighting for democracy and civil rights in Indonesia. As global icons like Park are increasingly becoming allies to local movements, it demonstrates a powerful intersection of culture and activism, where music transcends borders and mobilizes support for critical causes around the world. His consistent efforts remind us that international support can play a crucial role in the struggle for justice and democratic integrity.

Glossary

  • eaJ Park [Person]: A South Korean musician and former member of the K-Pop group DAY6, known for his advocacy on political issues.
  • TNI Law [Document]: Draft Law No. 34 (2024), which allows Indonesian military personnel to hold civilian government positions, criticized for threatening democratic principles.
  • Suharto [Person]: The former authoritarian president of Indonesia whose regime is often referenced in discussions about military involvement in civilian governance.
  • pro-democracy activists [Concept]: Individuals and groups advocating for democratic governance and civil rights, particularly in opposition to military influence.
  • dual-functionality model [Concept]: A historical framework in which the military plays a significant role in both defense and governance, particularly in the context of Indonesia's past.
  • Regional Head Election Law [Document]: A law concerning elections for regional leaders in Indonesia, which faced protests due to its controversial revisions.
  • civil society groups [Concept]: Organizations that operate independently from government and focus on issues of public interest and advocacy, particularly in promoting democracy.

Source Documents