March 1, 2025, marks the 106th anniversary of the March 1st Movement, and as South Korea commemorates this pivotal event, large protests and prayer gatherings are scheduled across Seoul. Notably, significant political figures and citizens will gather to assert their views on the pending impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
This year's events, led by the pro-democracy group Save Korea, will kick off at 1 PM at Yeouido, with extensive participation from Christian communities and political leaders alike. Pastor Sohn Hyun-bo, from the World Church, led the charge for participation, declaring on social media, "At 1 PM on March 1, from 1 PM to 5 PM, we plan to gather for prayers and marches at Yeouido.” He emphasized the pivotal role of these events, stating, "This March 1st, all citizens will gather at Yeouido and Gwanghwamun to express their opinions.”
Organizers view this anniversary not simply as commemoration, but as imperative resistance against perceived threats to democracy, as evidenced by Save Korea's declaration: "March 1st is not just another holiday. Just as our forebears risked their lives, we too must unite for freedom and justice for South Korea." This echoes the sentiments of many who believe the nation stands at a crossroads.
Initially, police issued restrictions to inhibit marches, labeling them unauthorized gatherings. Yet, legal intervention allowed these protests to continue. The Seoul Administrative Court ruled favorably enabling Save Korea to march after weigh-in on both sides, asserting, “The scheduled events are occurring on a public holiday with no official National Assembly business, thereby posing no substantial obstruction to legislative functions.” This ruling is seen as pivotal for the supporters of Yoon’s presidency and influences the climate of the nation.
The Save Korea event will also witness speeches from notable figures, including former Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn and several prominent members of South Korea's National Assembly. Participants anticipate overflowing crowds, with Save Korea estimating attendance could reach up to 50,000 participants. Others anticipate greater numbers, significantly bolstered by local officials mobilizing attendees via organized transportation.
Reactions to the protests reflect deep political divisions. Critics, including student activists and other leftist groups, are organizing simultaneous counter events, calling for Yoon’s impeachment. These opposing forces encapsulate the intense polarization engulfing South Korea, mirroring historical echoes of division.
Countering the Save Korea narrative, some leaders from the Democratic Party have slated public gatherings to frame opposition against the growing calls for Yoon’s support. Lee Jae-myung, the party's leader, is expected to rally attendees supporting impeachment at Gwanghwamun Square, asserting, “The presidency should be held accountability, or else democracy itself is endangered.” The counter-protests anticipate significant turnout as citizens congregate to voice dissent against Yoon's administration.
The day marks more than just political gatherings; it ushers the combined memories of past struggles for independence from Japanese colonial rule and today’s struggles for political integrity and governmental accountability. Historical perspectives frame both factions’ ideologies today, evoking the spirit of resistance reminiscent of the 1919 independence movement.
Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, leading the movement's conservative faction, urges unity among supporters, beckoning, "We must assemble with one million voices, similar to the passionate cries for independence on the very same day!” His fervor signifies the urgency many feel, fearing the potential fate of the nation should Yoon be removed from office.
While both events progress, there remains greenlit optimism concerning freedom of assembly and speech, aspects of the nation’s democratic foundation they all seek to protect and promote. Yet, there exists uncertainty over how these rival movements will manifest visually across city landscapes as monuments of deeply rooted historical tensions loom.
The stakes have heightened as ordinary citizens find themselves at the forefront of impassioned political discourses. The juxtaposition between remembering the past and engaging with the present encapsulates the essence of March 1st today – it is not merely remembrance; it’s revitalization of voice, to contend for justice within the ebbing balance of South Korea's democracy.
Even as heated debates and passionate expressions characterize the day, it stands as yet another reminder of the resilience of South Korea’s democratic spirit. Each gathering, whether for or against President Yoon, reiterates the necessity for civil discourse amid turbulent times.