On May 6, 2025, more than 500 participants gathered in Seoul for the Immortal Regiment march, marking a record attendance for the event. This year’s celebration, organized with the support of the Coordinating Council of Russian Compatriots in the Republic of Korea (KSORS), the Russian Embassy, and Rossotrudnichestvo, coincided with the upcoming 80th anniversary of Victory Day.
The march commenced at 1:30 PM local time (07:30 Moscow time) in a square near the Russian Embassy, showcasing a vibrant display of cultural pride and remembrance. Volunteers from the All-Russian public movement "Volunteers of Victory" played a significant role in the organization of the event, which attracted not only Russian expatriates but also South Korean citizens interested in Russian culture and history.
Among the attendees were young people dressed in reconstructed Soviet Army military uniforms, adding a historical touch to the proceedings. Russian Ambassador to South Korea, Georgy Zinoviev, remarked on the scale and organization of this year’s event, stating, "This year, it is the most massive and carefully organized event. I don’t think that in the capital of South Korea, on the central street of the city, at Gwanghwamun Square, we have ever seen a procession with victory flags, banners dedicated to the Immortal Regiment, and music from the war years. It was, I believe, an unforgettable sight that will go down in the history of compatriots in the Republic of Korea."
The local police ensured the safety of participants throughout the march, facilitating a secure passage through the bustling streets of Seoul. Following the march, attendees were invited to a celebratory concert titled "Oblivion is Not Allowed," which featured a rich program of poetry, songs from the war era, and various musical and dance performances.
During the concert, Ambassador Zinoviev delivered a heartfelt address, expressing gratitude to all participants, organizers, and spectators, including Belarusian colleagues like Ambassador Andrei Chernetsky. He emphasized the significance of the event, drawing parallels between past and present struggles. "Just like 80 years ago, victory will be ours. The special military operation is still ongoing against the same enemy our ancestors fought against, against Nazism and fascism in its new guise, and I am confident it will end in victory, ensuring peaceful skies and security for us and our children for many years to come," he stated.
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, noted that as of May 6, 2025, Immortal Regiment marches have taken place in over 30 countries, with some cities hosting the event for the first time in years. This global phenomenon highlights the enduring connection and remembrance shared among Russians and their descendants, regardless of their location.
In addition to the Seoul event, the Immortal Regiment march also took place in Washington, D.C., for the first time in three years. Participants there carried photographs of their relatives who fought during the war, marching from the White House to the World War II Memorial. This simultaneous observance of history across continents underscores a shared commitment to honoring the sacrifices made during World War II.
The Immortal Regiment movement began in Russia in 2012, allowing families to honor their ancestors who fought in World War II by carrying their portraits in public marches. Since then, it has grown into a global event, connecting millions of people in a collective act of remembrance and respect.
As the 80th anniversary of Victory Day approaches, events like the Immortal Regiment march serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made during the war, fostering a sense of unity and pride among participants. In Seoul, the combination of cultural expression and historical remembrance created a powerful atmosphere that resonated deeply with those in attendance.
Looking ahead, the continued success of the Immortal Regiment marches around the world reflects a growing recognition of the importance of history in shaping national identities and collective memories. As communities come together to commemorate those who served and sacrificed, the legacy of their courage and resilience lives on, inspiring future generations to remember and reflect.