"Eradicating Pro-Japanese Forces" at Tapgol Park vs. "Peaceful Unification" at Gwanghwamun...Rallies and Marches Across Downtown Seoul

Pan-Citizen Committee: “Removing New Right Forces from Public Office Is the Second Independence Movement”
Conservative Groups Including One Korea Coalition Gather at Dongwha Duty Free Shop

On March 1, marking the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Movement, various rallies and protests by civic groups took place throughout downtown Seoul. While each group emphasized the importance of carrying on the spirit of independence, they voiced differing opinions on current issues facing the country.

A performance is taking place at the bell-ringing ceremony commemorating the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Movement held at Bosingak, Seoul, on the 1st. Photo by Yonhap News.

The Pan-Citizen Committee for the 107th Anniversary of the March 1st Great Revolution held a commemorative event in front of Tapgol Park, Jongno-gu, at 10:30 a.m. that day, declaring that "removing pro-Japanese New Right forces from public office and punishing the main culprits of treason constitute today’s second independence movement." The committee urged citizens to protect sovereignty and peace with the same dignity shown by their ancestors 107 years ago.

Later, at 2:00 p.m., the Bereaved Families Association of Victims of Forced Mobilization by Imperial Japan held its inaugural ceremony at Uijeongbu, Jongno-gu. Around 20 participants called on the government to take a proactive role in resolving the issues related to compensation and reparations for victims of forced mobilization during the Japanese occupation.

Conservative groups also held rallies. The One Korea National Coalition convened in front of the Dongwha Duty Free Shop at 2:00 p.m., emphasizing the pursuit of peaceful unification based on the spirit of the March 1st independence movement. After singing "Our Wish," they marched toward Jahamun-ro.

In addition, the Ten Million People Movement Headquarters marched from Seoul Station to the Finance Building at 11:00 a.m., while groups such as Bellado marched from Marronnier Park to Cheongwadae Sarangchae starting at 12:30 p.m.

The simultaneous large-scale rallies and marches caused severe traffic congestion in downtown Seoul. According to the Seoul Transport Operation and Information Service (TOPIS), as of 4:20 p.m. that day, the average vehicle speed in the city center dropped to 9.3 km/h, while the average speed for all of Seoul was just 21.0 km/h.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.