‘Two-Block Guy’ Faces 5-Year Sentence: How a Teen Became the Face of Korea’s Court Riot

The Night That Shook Korea: What Really Happened at the Seoul Western District Court?

Did you know that on January 19, 2025, South Korea witnessed one of its most shocking moments in recent history? In the middle of the night, supporters of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol stormed the Seoul Western District Court after news broke that an arrest warrant had been issued. The crowd, fueled by anger and online incitement, smashed windows, broke into judges’ offices, and even attempted arson. For three hours, chaos reigned as police struggled to regain control. The riot left dozens injured and over 90 people arrested, marking the first time in decades that the Korean judiciary faced such direct violence. The event sent shockwaves through the nation, with many asking: how did things get so out of hand?

Who Is the ‘Two-Block Guy’? The Unexpected Face of the Riot

Among those arrested, one figure stood out: a tall teenager with a trendy two-block haircut, quickly dubbed the ‘Two-Block Guy’ by online communities. At just 18 years old, he became the unlikely poster child for the riot. His lawyer argued in court that he was swept up by older protesters who called for young people to come forward, insisting he had no political agenda or deep convictions—just curiosity. The defense emphasized that he was not connected to far-right leaders like Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, and that his actions were impulsive. In his final statement, the teen expressed deep regret, promising never to appear as a defendant again. Still, prosecutors sought the harshest sentence: five years in prison.

How Did Online Communities Fuel the Flames?

If you’re curious about Korean internet culture, you need to know about DC Inside, Nate Pann, and FM Korea. These online forums played a major role in the riot’s organization. On DC Inside, users shared courthouse maps, tracked police movements, and posted real-time updates. The ‘People Power Party Gallery’ became a hub for rallying supporters and coordinating actions. After the riot, authorities traced much of the online incitement back to these platforms, sparking debates about the influence—and dangers—of anonymous online communities in Korea. Some users cheered the riot as an act of resistance, while others condemned it as reckless extremism. The event reignited discussions about youth radicalization and the power of digital fandoms in shaping real-world events.

Community Reactions: Outrage, Sympathy, and Deep Divides

On Naver and Tistory blogs, reactions ranged from shock to empathy. Some bloggers expressed horror at the violence, calling it a dark day for Korean democracy. Others sympathized with the young defendants, questioning whether harsh sentences would truly address the root causes of such unrest. On Nate Pann and Instiz, heated debates erupted: Was the ‘Two-Block Guy’ a victim of manipulation or an active participant? FM Korea and PGR21 saw users split between calls for strict punishment and worries about the future of Korean youth. Many pointed out that over half of those arrested were in their 20s and 30s—an age group not typically associated with far-right activism. This demographic twist led to soul-searching about the pressures and frustrations facing young people in today’s Korea.

Inside the Courtroom: Sentencing and Legal Fallout

The legal response was swift and severe. Prosecutors indicted more than 60 people, with sentences ranging from one to five years. The ‘Two-Block Guy’ received the longest sentence, symbolizing the judiciary’s determination to reaffirm the rule of law. The court described the riot as a direct attack on the foundation of Korean democracy. During parliamentary hearings, lawmakers debated whether the incident should be classified as insurrection. Some argued that the violence was incited by far-right YouTubers and political leaders, while others blamed police for failing to prevent the chaos. The Supreme Court estimated damages at nearly $500,000, and discussions began about seeking compensation from those convicted.

Why Did This Happen? Cultural and Political Context for International Readers

To understand the riot, it helps to know a bit about Korea’s political climate. The impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol deeply polarized the country. Many older conservatives viewed the arrest as a political witch hunt, while younger generations felt alienated by both sides. The rise of online fandoms and digital activism has blurred the lines between protest and performance, with internet celebrities and YouTubers wielding outsized influence. The riot was not just about one leader or one decision—it reflected broader anxieties about justice, authority, and the future of Korean society. For international fans, this episode is a window into how rapidly digital culture and political frustration can combine to produce real-world upheaval.

What’s Next? Lessons, Warnings, and the Road Ahead

In the aftermath, Korean society is grappling with tough questions. Can the rule of law withstand the pressures of online incitement and mass mobilization? How should the justice system handle young offenders swept up in political chaos? And what role should online communities play in shaping public debate? The ‘Two-Block Guy’ case has become a touchstone for debates about youth, justice, and the power of digital culture. As courts continue to hand down sentences and communities process the trauma, one thing is clear: Korea’s democracy faces new challenges in the age of viral outrage and online fandoms. For now, the story of the Seoul Western District Court riot remains a powerful reminder of how quickly history can turn—and how important it is to understand the forces shaping it.