The National Conference for Unification convened to elect General Chun Doo-hwan as the President of the Fourth Republic of Korea, following his successful military coup on May 17. Chun had seized control of the government amidst increasing political instability and civil unrest, asserting that his leadership was necessary to restore order in South Korea. The conference was designed to legitimize the new regime, yet it operated within the confines of martial law, and there were no rival candidates presented for the presidency. This allowed Chun to amass significant power with little resistance, effectively consolidating military dictatorship in the country. Opponents of Chun's rise were either imprisoned, silenced, or had fled the country, leaving the political landscape devoid of genuine competition. Chun's election was met with international scrutiny, as it represented a setback for democratic movements in South Korea. Chun's regime would later face severe challenges, including public protests against his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses. His presidency, which officially began with this unopposed election, initiated a period marked by political repression and economic growth yet would face eventual opposition and demands for democratization.