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Article: South Korean Candidate Roh Tae Woo Scrutinized on Role in 1979 Coup
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- November 13, 1987
- Author:
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Facing a sudden barrage of criticism from opponents, ruling party
presidential candidate Roh Tae Woo made his first detailed defense
today of the controversial 1979 coup that brought President Chun Doo
Hwan to power.
Roh said the military takeover had been necessary to avert
political chaos in South Korea.
A former general, Roh has been put on the defensive by a series
of charges from the opposition this week over his disputed role
during the coup. The accusations are forcing Roh and the ruling
Democratic Justice Party to break a virtual eight-year silence on the
previously taboo issue.
The public debate could set back Roh's hopes for shedding an
image as a close Chun ally and key actor ...