Amid the nationwide mourning for victims of a recent plane crash, South Korea is grappling with intensifying political divisions. While current protests are far more peaceful compared to the violent confrontations of the 1960s-1980s, the growing political standoff and legislative deadlock are making it difficult to foresee a path forward. Experts highlight that despite South Korea's reputation for pragmatism, both sides of the political spectrum appear unwilling to compromise, further complicating the situation.