Citizens Gather in Gwanghwamun to Remember, Mourn, and Recommit to Change
On the weekend of April 12, Gwanghwamun Square was filled with people who, even after the impeachment of the former president, feel that spring has yet to come. They gathered to remember the 11th memorial of the Sewol Ferry Disaster and to reaffirm their commitment to ensuring such tragedies never happen again.
The day began with a flag performance at 12:30 PM, followed by booths lining the streets, inviting citizens to participate in remembrance and education. At 4:16 PM, the memorial ceremony began—many wept, some smiled, and all reflected on the kind of world we must build in the wake of such loss.
The ceremony was not without difficulty. Rain poured steadily throughout the day, casting a somber tone over the event. Yet despite the cold and discomfort, the warmth of solidarity held people in place, united in purpose and memory.
In this space, where those lost and those left behind are remembered, where grief and determination coexist, the Korean Council reflected deeply on the power of memory and solidarity in the movement to resolve the issue of Japan’s military sexual slavery.
We renew our commitment to action and will continue to draw strength from collective memory to fuel our work for justice and peace.
Citizens Gather in Gwanghwamun to Remember, Mourn, and Recommit to Change
On the weekend of April 12, Gwanghwamun Square was filled with people who, even after the impeachment of the former president, feel that spring has yet to come. They gathered to remember the 11th memorial of the Sewol Ferry Disaster and to reaffirm their commitment to ensuring such tragedies never happen again.
The day began with a flag performance at 12:30 PM, followed by booths lining the streets, inviting citizens to participate in remembrance and education. At 4:16 PM, the memorial ceremony began—many wept, some smiled, and all reflected on the kind of world we must build in the wake of such loss.
The ceremony was not without difficulty. Rain poured steadily throughout the day, casting a somber tone over the event. Yet despite the cold and discomfort, the warmth of solidarity held people in place, united in purpose and memory.
In this space, where those lost and those left behind are remembered, where grief and determination coexist, the Korean Council reflected deeply on the power of memory and solidarity in the movement to resolve the issue of Japan’s military sexual slavery.
We renew our commitment to action and will continue to draw strength from collective memory to fuel our work for justice and peace.