Chun Doo-hwan
By 1986, the general public was happy with the economic growth.  However, there was much anger and hatred against Chun's regime by left-wing students who later became known as 386s.  The left wing students led the nationwide June 1987 protests. In the same month, U.S. President Ronald Reagan sent a letter to Chun in support of the creation of "democratic institutions." On June 29th, Roh Tae-woo announced a program of reform. This included direct presidential elections, restoration of banned politicians including Kim Dae-jung, and other liberalizing measures.  This won Roh instant popularity, and he was elected as the next president of South Korea. It later became known that Chun was responsible for this plan.