Why Do Some People Treat Presidents Like Kings?
In democratic societies, presidents are elected to serve as leaders, not monarchs. However, in many countries, including South Korea, the United States, and others, some people exhibit extreme loyalty to their preferred president—treating them almost like royalty. This phenomenon can be explained through a mix of psychology, history, culture, and political dynamics.
1. Psychological Factors: The Need for a Strong Leader
- Authoritarian Personality & Leadership Worship
Some individuals have a natural tendency to admire strong authority figures. They feel safer and more comfortable when a leader appears decisive, charismatic, and dominant—even if that means overlooking flaws. - Cognitive Dissonance & Identity Politics
People who strongly support a president often merge their personal identity with their political beliefs. If their leader is criticized, they feel personally attacked and will defend them at all costs, even if evidence suggests wrongdoing.- Example: Supporters of controversial leaders often reject scandals or corruption allegations as "fake news" because accepting them would force them to reconsider their deeply held beliefs.
- Tribalism & Group Psychology
Political supporters sometimes form “camps” or “tribes”, treating politics as a battle between "us vs. them." In this mindset, their president becomes the symbol of their group, making loyalty more about belonging than actual policy.
2. Historical & Cultural Influences
- Remnants of Monarchical Traditions
Many societies, even after transitioning to democracy, retain cultural memories of strong rulers. In countries with a history of monarchy or dictatorship, the expectation of a “father figure” leader often persists.- Example: In South Korea, the legacy of authoritarian leaders like Park Chung-hee created an expectation of a "strongman president" who guides the nation like a monarch.
- The Great Leader Myth
Some nations cultivate a heroic narrative around their leaders, portraying them as saviors of the country. This myth-making is often reinforced by state propaganda, media bias, or nationalist sentiment.- Example: In the U.S., figures like Abraham Lincoln or John F. Kennedy are treated almost like saints by their supporters, even though they were human and had flaws.
- Confucian Influence & Respect for Authority
In East Asian cultures influenced by Confucianism, there is a strong tradition of respecting hierarchical leadership. Some people naturally defer to authority, viewing the president as a figure of wisdom and guidance.
3. Media & Political Strategies
- Media Bias & Personality Cults
Many political leaders control or influence media narratives, shaping public perception in their favor. Supporters exposed to one-sided media coverage begin to see their leader as flawless or persecuted.- Example: Leaders like Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, and Kim Jong-un have used state-controlled or partisan media to strengthen their image as powerful rulers.
- Propaganda & Symbolism
Political parties often use symbols, slogans, and nationalistic rhetoric to elevate their leader’s image. When a leader is framed as the only person capable of protecting the country, supporters feel compelled to defend them no matter what.- Example: Campaign slogans like "Make America Great Again" (Trump) or "Protect Our Nation" (various leaders) reinforce the idea that the leader alone can save the country.
- Political Polarization & Fear Tactics
In highly divided societies, political groups demonize opponents and create fear-based loyalty. Supporters believe that if their leader is removed, the country will collapse or be taken over by the "enemy."- Example: Some supporters of South Korean presidents like Park Geun-hye or Moon Jae-in believed that their removal from office would bring national disaster.
4. Consequences of Treating Presidents Like Kings
- Blind Loyalty & Lack of Accountability
When people treat presidents like kings, they ignore mistakes, corruption, or abuses of power, preventing real democratic accountability. Leaders should be servants of the people, not rulers above criticism. - Increased Political Division
Over-glorifying leaders creates extreme political polarization, making it harder for societies to engage in rational debate or compromise. - Encouragement of Authoritarianism
Leaders who realize they have unquestioning supporters may start abusing power, eroding democratic institutions, and seeking longer terms in office.
Conclusion: Democracy Requires Critical Thinking
A president is not a king—they are an elected official who must be held accountable. While it’s natural to support a leader who aligns with your values, blind loyalty leads to corruption and abuse of power. In a healthy democracy, citizens should remain critical, informed, and willing to question authority—no matter who is in office.