Fourth Republic of South Korea

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Fourth Republic of South Korea
Hangul:	제4공화국
Hanja:	第四共和國
Revised Romanization:	Jesa Gonghwaguk
McCune-Reischauer:	Chesa Konghwaguk

The Fourth Republic of South Korea was the government of the country from 1972 to 1979. Throughout this period, the government was led by Park Chung-hee.

The Fourth Republic began with the adoption of the Yusin Constitution on November 21, 1972. This new constitution gave him effective control over the parliament. In the face of continuing popular unrest, Park promulgated emergency decrees in 1974 and 1975 which led to the jailing of hundreds of dissidents.

[edit] Economy

This period also saw continued dramatic economic growth. The government invested heavily in heavy industries.

[edit] International relations

A variety of events in international diplomacy led the Park regime to reconsider its diplomatic position. Notable here was the normalization of US diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China, which cast doubt on South Korea's ability to count on Cold War backing from the US government. The South Korean government began to establish diplomatic relations with many countries, including Canada. In addition, the first round of Red Cross talks were held between South and North Korea. Park also announced plans for eventual reunification.