Save Jeju Now

No War Base on the Island of Peace

  • How many more must die? Stop all offshore rocket launch operations immediately! – In memory of the worker who lost his life during an offshore launch operation off the coast of Jeju

    Following the press conference, representatives from the Jeju Provincial Chapter of the Justice Party, the Jeju Green Party, HotPink Dolphins, and People Against the Space Militarization and Rocket Launches delivered a statement to the Space Mobility Division of the Jeju Provincial Government. (Photo: Hwang Yong-woon, Nov. 13th, 2026)

    How many more must die? Stop all offshore rocket launch operations immediately!

    – In memory of the worker who lost his life during an offshore launch operation off the coast of Jeju

    We are deeply saddened by the news that a diver lost his life on November 10 while working to recover an underwater chain from a space launch vehicle barge. We offer our sincere condolences to the deceased. We also urge a thorough investigation into the incident and the punishment of those responsible, to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

    The incident occurred 5 km west of Marado Island—more than 20 km away from Gangjeong, where the launch pad is visible. The specific cause of the incident is not yet known. A thorough investigation is required to determine the cause, examining not only the weather and marine conditions on the day of the incident but also whether the client and the primary contractor had adequate safety systems in place, and whether they demanded that work be carried out under unreasonable or unsafe conditions.

    Furthermore, the military, Hanwha, and the Jeju provincial government—all of whom pushed for the offshore launch—must not remain silent regarding the death of the diver. They must offer an apology to the bereaved family as well as to the residents of Jeju, and provide a transparent account of the truth.

    The military has stated that it is pursuing sea-based launches in connection with its overall military capabilities. This marks the fourth time the military has launched a solid-fuel space launch vehicle, following the third launch, which took place off the coast of Jungmun in December 2023. Both the third and fourth launches were for the purpose of deploying satellites.

    Hanwha has been involved in the entire infrastructure for sea-based launches—encompassing the production of satellites, launch vehicles, and launch pads. In recent years, the company has publicly declared its intention to transform Jeju into a forward base for the space industry—a hub where the full lifecycle of space operations, from satellite manufacturing and launching to data collection, analysis, and distribution, can take place. Despite opposition from local residents, Hanwha ultimately established its satellite manufacturing space center within a “special groundwater management zone” located in the mid-mountainous region of the island.

    Both the Oh Young-hun ex-administration and following Wi Seong-gon-administration in Jeju have presented the space industry—alongside artificial intelligence (AI)—to the island’s residents as a core future growth engine. While both administrations have touted the space industry as a catalyst for job creation and economic growth, even the Jeju Provincial Council has raised concerns regarding its lack of economic viability. Furthermore, the Jeju administrations have failed to inform residents that the space industry is linked to military capabilities—potentially deepening the militarization of Jeju—poses risks of environmental contamination, such as to groundwater and soil, and carries a high danger of explosions and fires. Earlier this year, when reports of offshore space launches began to surface in the media, the provincial government offered no official response. It is no exaggeration to say that the Jeju administration has sided with the military and the conglomerate Hanwha, rather than with the people of Jeju. The Oh Young-hun ex-administration has proposed transforming Jeju into a space industry cluster, while the Wi Seong-gon-aligned leadership has envisioned a “2nd Space Center” centered on offshore rocket launches from Jeju.

    In April, 883 individuals and organizations—both domestic and international—joined a collective statement calling for an end to sea-based rocket launches. Then, on June 1, an explosion occurred at the Hanwha Aerospace plant in Daejeon while solid propellant was being handled; the incident claimed the lives of five workers and left two others with injuries ranging from serious to minor. In addition to mourning the victims, a nationwide petition was launched, demanding a comprehensive re-evaluation of the space and defense industries, which pose threats to human life and peace. This petition was delivered to the then-mayoral-elect of Daejeon, Heo Tae-jeong, and the then-governor-elect of Jeju, Wi Seong-gon. Nevertheless, on the final day of that same month, Hanwha attempted to test a solid-propellant space launch vehicle in the waters off Jeju. Although the launch did not proceed due to technical issues with the vehicle, local fishermen—including those in Gangjeong and Daepo—were forced to halt their fishing operations. In Gangjeong, elderly haenyeo (female divers) were encouraged to watch the launch while wearing vests emblazoned with the name “Hanwha.” The military and Hanwha subsequently prepared for another launch in November. A sea-based launch platform, which had been docked at the Jeju Naval Base since February, set sail on the 7th, and preparations for a launch were underway by the 13th.

    We ask the military, Hanwha, and the Jeju provincial government: When a diver—a worker—was struggling to breathe in the dark depths of the sea, who was reaping the profits? Who was busy selling a rosy future to the people of Jeju? How many more workers must risk their lives?

    When the waters of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—home to protected soft corals, dolphins, and a myriad of other marine life—are filled with rocket debris, fuel remnants, toxic chemicals, and deafening noise that lead to the death of these creatures; when the groundwater in the mid-mountain regions—the vital lifeblood of the island’s residents—is drained and contaminated for the sake of corporate profit, including that of the arms manufacturer Hanwha; and when the land, its flora and fauna, and its people fall ill under the explosive roar of engine combustion tests—how much more of this suffering will be kept hidden?

    How many more must die? The military, Hanwha, and the Jeju provincial government must provide an answer. Halt all offshore launches that drive workers and living beings to their deaths! Disclose the risks of the space industry transparently to the residents of Jeju, and conduct a full-scale review of all related plans!

    We demand a thorough investigation into the death of the deceased and the punishment of those responsible! The military, Hanwha, and the Jeju provincial government must immediately halt offshore launches that threaten life and peace! Fully re-evaluate the space industry—including projects like the Hawon Techno Campus—which deepens the militarization of Jeju and invites disaster!

    November 13, 2026

    Gangjeong Village Residents’ Committee Against the Naval Base, Gangjeong Daily Resistance Action, Gangjeong Friends, People Making Jeju a Demilitarized Island of Peace, People Against the Space Militarization and Rocket Launches, Justice Party (Jeju Provincial Chapter), Jeju Green Party, Inter-Island Solidarity for Peace of the Sea, HotPink Dolphins

    Photo by Beodl

    A video record of Nov. 13th press conference (By Hwang Yong-woon)

    Related article https://newsfield.net/english-46228/

    Another Death at Solid-Propellant Launch Site… Jeju Groups Point to Repeated Accidents at Hanwha Aerospace, Including One That Killed Five

  • [June 30th Statement] We condemn the attempted offshore rocket launch by the military, Hanwha, and the Jeju Provincial Government!

    Photo by Hwang Yong-woon, June 30, 2026

     Photo by Hwang Yong-woon, June 30, 2026

    On June 30, the military and Hanwha attempted to conduct the fourth test of a solid-propellant space launch vehicle off the coast of Seogwipo, Jeju, but were ultimately forced to cancel it [mainly due to technical reasons]. This occurred less than a month after the explosion at Hanwha Aerospace in Daejeon.

    An investigation into the cause of the explosion at Hanwha Aerospace in Daejeon has revealed some facts. Hanwha has consistently ignored workers’ requests to improve their working conditions. Furthermore, Building 56—the explosives cleaning facility where the tragedy occurred—was an unlicensed structure.

    At Hanwha Aerospace’s Daejeon plant, at least 13 workers lost their lives in explosions in 2018, 2019, and 2026. The company even went so far as to cover up the 2016 accident. At a time when all efforts should be focused on a thorough investigation of the facts and holding those responsible to account, we are outraged that Hanwha has gone ahead with a sea-based launch off the coast of Jeju.

     Hanwha’s anti-human rights and anti-life practices, which disregard workers’ human rights and lives, are clearly evident in the Jeju offshore launch as well. In Gangjeong and Daepo Villages—where the sea launch took place—most residents, with the exception of fishing cooperatives that had to suspend operations, did not receive proper advance notice. The residents were not even aware that the object floating in the sea was a launch pad. In the case of Daepo Village, residents were preparing to operate their yachts and boats even on the very day of the launch. The villagers’ right to know about their own living environment and their right to safety were completely disregarded. The Jeju Provincial Government also bears significant responsibility for aiding and abetting the Jeju offshore launch by collaborating with the military and Hanwha.

    For this fourth launch of the military’s solid-propellant space launch vehicle, Hanwha Aerospace is providing the launch vehicle, Hanwha Systems is providing the reconnaissance satellite, and Hanwha Ocean is providing the launch pad platform. In other words, this launch—which brings together all three of Hanwha’s major subsidiaries—is entirely for military purposes. On the one hand, this experiment marks the full-scale beginning of efforts to upgrade the military’s satellite network, a long-standing ambition; on the other hand, it serves to conceal even more lethal missile launch tests. Furthermore, the development of solid propellants—which caused the explosion at Hanwha Aerospace in Daejeon—could lead to the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles. This means that Hanwha will continue to generate profits in collaboration with military capabilities, leveraging the military infrastructure provided by the Jeju Naval Base.

    On May 6, three major Hanwha subsidiaries met with former Pacific Command Commander Harry Harris and others to emphasize that the ROK-U.S. alliance is the cornerstone of Hanwha’s defense industry. However, the Jeju Space Center, which Hanwha constructed last December in the Jeju mid-mountain Groundwater Special Management Zone, is depleting and polluting the drinking and agricultural water that is the lifeblood of Jeju residents. The planned solid- and liquid-fuel engine test facilities on the site cannot rule out the possibility of explosions similar to those in Daejeon. The adjacent river in the Absolute Conservation Area will no longer serve as a lifeline for the island’s residents. The numerous debris and chemicals, such as hydrochloric acid, generated during sea-based launches will affect areas hundreds of kilometers away from the launch site, causing suffering and even death to many non-human beings, including endangered marine species. If sea-based launches continue in this manner, the sea—which sustains the people of Jeju and countless marine beings—will soon become a sea of death.

     The Jeju Provincial Government deserves to be condemned for turning a blind eye to the violation and exploitation of the groundwater and the sea—which are vital to the lives of Jeju residents—for the sake of the military interest and weapons manufacturers’ profits.

      On June 29, civic groups in Daejeon and Jeju who had gathered 306 signatures from individuals and organizations nationwide delivered them respectively to Daejeon Mayor-elect Heo Tae-jeong, and Jeju Governor-elect Wi Seong-gon, urging the central and local governments to conduct a comprehensive review of the space and defense industries that threaten life and peace. Governor-elect Wi Seong-gon, who has pledged to carry on the legacy of Governor Oh Young-hoon’s administration and make the space industry a core industry for Jeju, must heed the anger and warnings of citizens, including the people of Jeju. Stop the offshore launch in Jeju. We condemn the plan for an offshore launch in Jeju. Halt the space industry, which is turning our shared living environment into ruins.

    We want life and peace, not warships and rockets! We are absolutely opposed to sea-based rocket launches!

    We are absolutely opposed to sea-based rocket launches which threaten the survival of Jeju’s marine life!

    Stop the Hawon Techno Campus project, which is polluting Jeju’s groundwater and soil and threatening the survival of the local community!

    Stop the Hawon Techno Campus Project, which is procedurally unjust and will further militarize Jeju!

    A boon for the military, but poison for the people—Stop the space industry cluster!

    Hanwha, an accomplice to the genocide in Palestine! Stop the genocide industry!

    The Jeju Provincial Government must stop giving preferential treatment to Hanwha! Halt the Aewol Forest and Hawon Techno Campus projects!

    We call for a comprehensive review of the defense and aerospace industries, which threaten life and peace!

    June 30, 2026

    Gangjeong Villagers’ Association Against the Naval Base, Gangjeong Daily Resistance Action, Gangjeong Friends, People Making Jeju a Demilitarized Peace Island, People Opposing Space Militarization and Rocket Launches, Justice Party Jeju Provincial Chapter, Jeju Green Party, Islands’ Solidarity for a Sea of Peace, HotPinkDolphins

    For more photos, see. https://cafe.daum.net/space4peaceK/bs4u/44

  • Korean Flotilla Movement for a Free Palestine Sailing to Gaza

    On May 2, 2026, four Freedom Flotilla Coalition boats with 30 participants from 12 countries departed from Sicily, including 2 members of the Gangjeong peace movement, Haecho (Kim Ah-hyun) and Jonathan Seungjoon Lee (pictured above).

    While these Korean flotilla activists bring our attention to Palestine, let us help to share their voices!

    Please sign this petition to “Demand The South Korean Government Restore Peace Activist Kim Ahyun’s Passport”

    —> https://c.org/4dDyptn9Xy

    (Please follow through with your signature by clicking “continue” or “next” and also confirm your signature by email, but ignore any request for donations or other suggested petitions from the site!)

    May 5 update from the Korean Flotilla Movement for a Free Palestine:

    Early this morning, Israeli occupation forces threatened to hijack the FFC vessel carrying Haecho and Seungjoon off the coast of Greece.

    Between 1:27 a.m. and 5:15 a.m., U.S. C-130 aircraft and drones flew over the FFC vessel, and there was an urgent situation involving unidentified boats and white lights approaching the ship.

    Fortunately, as of 5:20 a.m., all threats had disappeared, and the voyage continues.

    This appalling act constitutes military surveillance and intimidation against civilian humanitarian aid ships. The world cannot stand idly by while civilian vessels are pursued by helicopters and drones in national territorial waters and on the high seas—a blatant violation of international law.

    ✊ With no delay:

    The Greek government must protect these ships from illegal military intervention by foreign forces!
    The international community must guarantee the safety of all participants in the flotilla!

    The South Korean government must do its utmost to ensure the personal safety of Kim Ah-hyun (Haecho) by guaranteeing the validity of her passport!

    The Zionist regime known as Israel and the nations colluding with or participating in its actions must be held to account not only for these war crimes but also for the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the ethnic cleansing in the West Bank.

    🌊We appeal to the citizens of the world!

    Let us join our voices in calling on our governments to put pressure on Israel to stop its acts of piracy and to guarantee the safe passage of human rights activists and relief supplies!

    Learn more in these articles:

    “Freedom Flotilla Defies Israeli Piracy and Terror at Sea, Launches New Vessels from Siracusa”

    https://freedomflotilla.org/2026/05/02/freedom-flotilla-defies-israeli-piracy-and-terror-at-sea-launches-new-vessels-from-siracusa

    Two Activists Aboard Gaza Aid Flotilla: “We Will Resist Through Our Nonviolent Voyage”

    [OhmyNews article by Jin-min Lee in Korean at https://omn.kr/2i12t]

    Scheduled to depart from Siracusa, Italy, on the afternoon of the 2nd; expected to arrive in the Gaza Strip in approximately 15 to 20 days

    “Those who frame our voyage to the Gaza Strip in terms of success or failure say our journey will fail. But I feel that continuing to set sail is a powerful form of resistance.” – Haecho, a member of the Gaza aid flotilla

    “You may want to turn a blind eye to what is happening now. But the moment will come when you realize that the oppression being perpetrated in Palestine will eventually spill over into all of our lives.” – Seungjoon, a member of the Gaza aid flotilla

    Korean activist Haecho (28, Kim Ah-hyun) and Korean-American activist Seungjoon (26, Jonathan Seungjoon Lee) have boarded the international aid flotilla bound for the Gaza Strip in Palestine. Activists from the Korean Flotilla Movement for a Free Palestine made these remarks in a written interview with <OhmyNews> on the 2nd, just before departure. They boarded the aid flotilla operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) in Syracuse, Italy, at 3:54 p.m. local time on the 2nd (10:54 p.m. Korean time) and set sail.

    Activist Haecho, who became the first Korean to join a Gaza aid flotilla last year, is embarking on her second voyage this time. She said, “Through my experience on the first voyage, I felt firsthand that the sailing campaign is more meaningful than I had anticipated.” She added, “Since the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip last October, the Middle East has been in a dangerous and unpredictable situation, and the danger in the Gaza Strip remains,” explaining, “It is our duty to cross the boundless sea when we must stand against borders.”

    Seungjoon, an activist who grew up in the United States and Argentina, is also active as a visual artist and experimental film director. Having returned to Korea about five years ago, Seungjoon has been living in Gangjeong Village on Jeju Island and participating in marine and sailing activism. He stated, “While living in Jeju, I learned about the activities of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and resolved to set sail for the Gaza Strip someday.” He continued, “Korea and the Gaza Strip are by no means unrelated,” asking, “How can we, with our history of colonial rule, remain silent?”

    They stated, “The Gaza Strip remains isolated, and Israel is brutally attacking more neighboring countries,” adding, “The oppression taking place in Palestine is occurring all over the world and represents a future that could also befall us.” They added, “We must recognize that others are not separate from us and sever the ties of fascism and colonialism,” noting that “the very act of continuing to sail toward the Gaza Strip is a powerful form of resistance.”

    The following is a summary of the Q&A session with them.

    “The situation in the Gaza Strip could happen in South Korea… We must defend our humanity.”

    • The Israeli military continues to exert pressure on the aid flotillas heading for the Gaza Strip. Why are you setting sail despite this?

    Haecho: “Since this is the largest aid flotilla ever assembled, Israel is applying pressure from various directions, both on land and at sea. However, the fact remains that the Gaza Strip is isolated and that people are still there in that dangerous place. I believe that being physically present and resisting is the most powerful way to challenge the system. When we must stand against borders, crossing the borderless sea is what we must do now.”

    Seungjoon: “The oppression of people, from Gaza to Korea, shares the same roots: the ideologies of militarism and imperialism. I also believe that Israel relies heavily on the image it projects to the outside world, rather than its actual military strength. The same applies to the United States, which instigates wars around the world. I do not believe that power is absolute. If we turn a blind eye to the genocide in the Gaza Strip, it is no different from accepting the power they project. We have the choice to uphold our humanity.”

    • In what context do you see a connection between your identity as a Korean and the journey to the Gaza Strip? Some view the Gaza issue as unrelated to Korea.

    Haecho: “’The liberation of Palestine is the liberation of us all.’ This is a slogan used in the Palestinian liberation movement. I believe we must ask ourselves where we stand and what pride and lessons our history offers us.”

    Seungjoon: “Korea and the Gaza Strip are by no means unrelated. We have a history of colonial rule and the pain of war caused by foreign invasion. We cannot ignore the fact that the South Korean government and corporations are profiting while aiding and abetting Israel’s genocide. Given that, how can we remain silent?”

    • What message do you hope to convey through this voyage?

    Haecho: “The Gaza Strip remains isolated. Israel is brutally attacking more and more of its neighboring countries. While I feel powerless in the face of such a world, I believe that continuing to resist is the way to sever the ties of fascism and colonialism. Those who label our voyage to reach the Gaza Strip as either a success or a failure claim that our journey will fail and is pointless.

    But I am contemplating how to fail well. Here, I sense that the end is in sight for Israel’s illegal colonial rule. The fact that our voyage is cracking Israel’s system and cracking the barrier known as the “blockade” becomes evident when Israel violates international law to oppress the sailors. People say our voyage, which is being seized, is being thwarted too quickly, but we clearly feel that continuing to set sail is a powerful act of resistance.”

    • What message would you like to convey to those who oppose or question the Gaza aid flotilla voyage?

    Haecho: “The word ‘opposition’ is concerning. This voyage is a peaceful journey of nonviolent resistance against fascism and Zionism. We are simply crossing the sea, where no one can claim sovereignty or territorial rights. I hope you will first consider who it is that is blocking such a voyage.”

    Seungjoon: “You may want to turn a blind eye or look away from what is happening now. But there will surely come a moment when we realize that the oppression being perpetrated in Palestine will eventually spill over into all of our lives. The same system of oppression is being established and operating not only across Palestine but also in struggle sites around the world.

    I know it’s not easy to think of others when just making ends meet is a struggle. But we must remember that ‘others’ are not separate from us.”

    • How do you feel as you head to the Gaza Strip? Is there anything you’d like to say to the people of South Korea?

    Haecho: “We decided to set sail at a time when many ships have already been seized. We made this decision after much deliberation, remembering the peace activism we learned in Jeju. I believe that resisting a massive system is not about achieving success, but about ‘failing well.’”

    Seungjoon: “The South Korean government must sever all ties with Israel, and South Korean citizens must take action against South Korean companies that profit from genocide. I hope they will consider how South Korea will be remembered in the future.”

    [Translated with DeepL (free version) and edited by Curry.]

  • [Statement] Stop the joint military-Hanwha Systems-Jeju Provincial Government Sea Launch!

    Photo by Beodl

    Stop the joint military-Hanwha Systems-Jeju Provincial Government Sea Launch!

    The military, Hanwha Systems, and the Jeju Provincial Government plan to conduct a test of Hanwha Systems’ solid-fuel space launch vehicle, carrying a satellite, in the waters off Seogwipo, Jeju—specifically between Gangjeong and Daepo—by the end of April. The domestic and international organizations and individuals listed below believe that this launch will intensify the militarization of Jeju, destroy the local ecosystem and environment, and threaten democracy, and we strongly demand its immediate cancellation.

    According to an exclusive report by CBS Nocut News in February, the South Korean military plans to complete approximately 10 rocket launch tests, including this one, by the end of next year. In response, 19 civic groups in Jeju issued a joint statement on February 23, urging the provincial government to provide an explanation and demanding a halt to the sea-based launches.

    However, as of ten days before the launch, the Jeju Provincial Government led by Oh Young-hoon had not issued any official statement. Military officials have also avoided providing specific details, stating only that the launch is “related to military capabilities.” This vague remark illustrates how the launch is closely tied to the military, and is therefore carried out without proper public scrutiny.

    Nevertheless, the Jeju Provincial Government has been promoting the space industry as a “future growth engine.” Following its designation of 2025 as the “first year of a space industry that residents can tangibly experience,” it has positioned the space industry as a core sector alongside AI and the energy industry. The company that has reaped all manner of benefits of Jeju’s investments in space industries is Hanwha Systems, a manufacturer of weapons of war. Hanwha has entered into business partnerships with Israeli companies and contributed to the massacre of Palestinians, and it continues to boost its stock price through arms exports even amid the U.S. and Israeli war of aggression against Iran.

    On December 2nd, 2025, Hanwha Systems completed the construction of Hanwha Space Center, a small satellite manufacturing plant, on the site of the former Tamna University in the Jeju mid-mountain Groundwater Special Management Zone, despite opposition from local residents. This facility is located about a 15-minute drive from the Jeju Naval Base, which serves as a U.S. outpost against China, and a sea-based launch platform has already docked at the Jeju Naval Base and is preparing for launch. The proximity of the two facilities signifies that a structure combining the space industry and military infrastructure is now fully taking shape on Jeju.

    Furthermore, the Jeju Provincial Government is promoting “Hawon Techno Campus” industrial complex, which will include a combustion test facility for solid and liquid fuel engines and a test facility for space thrusters. The site is located just 4 km from the Gangjeong Water Source Protection Area, which is located at a river designated as an absolute conservation zone.

    In addition, the Jeju Provincial Government, led by Governor Oh Young-hoon, is working to have Jeju designated as a space industry cluster, based on the National Satellite Operations Center which was completed in Gujwa-eup, Jeju, in 2022, as well as Contec Asian Space Park, Asia’s largest private space ground station which was completed in April 2026, along with the Hanwha Space Center which was completed last year.  In September 2025, the administration also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Korea Aerospace Administration in connection with the KPS (Korean Satellite Navigation System) development project. The vision is to establish Jeju as one of the four core pillars of Korea’s space industry, alongside South Jeolla Province (launch vehicles), South Gyeongsang Province (satellites), and Daejeon (research), which have already been designated as space industry clusters.

    The space industry cluster is not an industry for the future. Rather, it is a scheme that exploits the future of the majority of the people. It destroys water and soil environments—the lifeline of local residents—and undermines the foundations of peace, human rights, and democracy by making the local economy dependent on space and arms companies.

    It is also important to note that these sea-based launches take place in a regulatory vacuum. There is no system in place for conducting environmental impact assessments for such launches, and there is a complete lack of consideration for the fatal harm that can impact marine ecosystems and air quality. Furthermore, it is highly likely that fishermen will not receive adequate compensation for the losses incurred due to the suspension of their fishing operations. Such damages have been repeatedly covered up.

    Furthermore, as this launch marks the fourth test of a solid-fuel space launch vehicle, its connection to missile technology cannot be ruled out, as it goes beyond a simple satellite launch. This is because solid-fuel space launch vehicles share the same rocket technology as intercontinental ballistic missiles.

    As seen in the U.S. and Israeli war of aggression against Iran and Iran’s response, military bases, weapons production facilities, satellite ground stations, and AI data infrastructure are all priority targets in times of war. The space industry, including maritime launches, is not a future growth industry but a means of incorporating regions into war infrastructure.

    We are concerned that the maritime launch off the coast of Jeju will transform Jeju, the “Island of Peace,” into a military stronghold and threaten local ecosystems and the lives of residents. Furthermore, we are deeply concerned about the adverse effects this launch will have on global peace. Accordingly, we strongly urge the military, Hanwha, and the Jeju Provincial Government to halt the maritime launch.

    Furthermore, we declare that we will continue to monitor and resist this trend—not only in Jeju but around the world—where the military and weapons manufacturers are joining forces under the guise of the space industry, in order to protect the lives of the people and democracy. 

    The Jeju Provincial Government, the South Korean military, and Hanwha Systems must immediately halt the sea-based launch, which will intensify the militarization of Jeju and transform the “Island of Peace” into a war infrastructure.

    April 20th, 2026

    A total of 883 Korea and international individuals and organizations

    (including 140 organizations)

    ……………………………………………………….

    From April 13th to 19th, the Jeju Green Party, the Jeju Provincial Chapter of the Justice Party, and People Opposing Space Militarization and Rocket Launches collected signatures for the petition called “Stop the joint military-Hanwha Systems-Jeju Provincial Government Sea Launch!” It was in four languages of Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese.

    On Monday, April 20, at 11:00 a.m.,15 co-organizing groups held a press conference in front of the Jeju Provincial Government Building and submitted a summary of the petition results, a statement in four languages, and a list of signatories in four languages to the Jeju Provincial Government, addressed to Governor Oh Young-hoon.  Shin Hyo-seop, an official from the Space Mobility Division, promised to deliver the materials to Jeju Governor Oh Young-hoon. Please refer to the document tabs on the left for the petition in four languages and the list of signatories for each language.

    The organizations and individuals who signed the petition are based in a total of 20 countries and regions, including Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Nepal, Guam, Hong Kong, Hawaii, the United States, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Finland, Hungary, Norway, Canada, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand, in addition to South Korea.

    Many signatories called for an end to offshore rocket launches and the militarization of Jeju Island in the petition, and included messages expressing their hopes for peace in Northeast Asia and the world. (Included in the “Documents” tab for each language.)

    Photos by Hwang Hyun-Jin

  • Statement: Jeju Rally for Palestinian Liberation and Solidarity with Haecho and the Humanitarian Flotilla Peace Activists

    Photo by Park Han-sol

    “Beyond the blockade, toward solidarity and connection!”

    “I’ve learned that crossing the borderless sea can break blockades and forge solidarity and connection. Meeting across barriers, shattering blockades—that is the purpose of this voyage.” (From a letter by Haecho, ahead of her Gaza voyage).

    On Wed., Oct. 8, at 11:40 AM, Haecho’s boat, the ‘Alaa Al-Najjar’ was seized. Around the same time, all nine ships of the ‘Thousand Madleens to Gaza’ humanitarian flotilla were seized by Israeli forces. All activists, journalists, and medical personnel aboard the flotilla were arrested and detained in an Israeli desert security prison. Two days later, on Oct. 10, Haecho was released under voluntary deportation and, as she said, she is returning to us. However, our demand has been not only Haecho’s release but also the safe and swift release of all activists from the flotilla.

    The Lee Jae-myung administration has worked to secure the release of their citizen Haecho. But that alone is not enough. South Korea remains among the 35 countries out of 193 worldwide that still do not recognize Palestine as a state. Korean companies like Hanwha, Samsung, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), and HD Hyundai are collaborating with Israeli firms and contributing to the genocide of Palestine. Korea National Oil Corporation is also involved in securing exploration rights for Gaza Strip gas fields. The Lee Jae-myung administration must not only strongly condemn the Israeli government’s blatant disregard of international law and the illegal abduction of its own citizen, but also signal the possibility of halting cooperation with Israel. The Colombian government has ordered the expulsion of Israeli diplomats and terminated its free trade agreement with Israel. The Turkish prosecutor’s office has expressed its intent to investigate whether Israel violated international law by arresting over 20 Turkish citizens, specifically regarding deprivation of liberty and seizure of means of transport. The UN has already defined Israel’s attack on the Gaza Strip as genocide on Sept. 16.

    According to accounts from activists released from Israeli prisons, including those aboard the ‘Global Sumud Flotilla,’ they were denied water and food, subjected to beatings, sexual harassment, psychological terror, threats, and other forms of abuse and torture. Their testimonies demand that we, the international community, finally heed Palestine’s long-neglected suffering and its yearning for independence, liberation, and peace. Even before this, over 11,100 Palestinians have been detained by Israel under the pretext of ‘security,’ and they have suffered abuse and torture. During their decades of imprisonment, they would have had to endure the noise of fighter jets bombing Gaza. Those whom the Israeli government labels ‘terrorists’ are those fighting for Palestine’s independence and liberation. They are people who stand against imperialist siege, blockade, and extermination policies. They are people who stand for the survival of non-humans who don’t have a voice.

    Jeju was no different. After liberation in 1945, independence and liberation were thwarted by the US military government. Branded a ‘Red Island,’ it became a target of imperialist massacre. Young people died under detention and torture, and 84 villages were ‘erased’ in scorched-earth operations. Those who survived the massacres became bereaved families, yet even speaking was ‘blocked’ and ‘blockaded,’ leaving them unable to dream of ‘connection.’ Jeju was another Palestine, and Palestine is another Jeju.

    Yet Jeju is becoming an island that exacerbates the threat of war due to the naval base and aerospace facilities. Warships depart from the Jeju Naval Base in Gangjeong Village to conduct war exercises on the high seas, while American strategic bombers fly over the high seas south of Jeju. There has been talk of building runways usable by U.S. strategic bombers if the Jeju Second Airport is built. Hanwha Systems, which collaborates with Israeli arms companies, is nearing completion of a space center in Jeju’s special groundwater management zone in the central mountain area, where it will produce satellites that will become eyes and ears for war.

    In this situation, a peace activist departed from Gangjeong to “break through the blockade imposed by capital and military might through the solidarity of countless people.” And she is now returning to us, her final destination. Hundreds of peace activists from around the world sailed to Gaza carrying humanity’s collective yearning for peace, seeking solidarity and connection, and they exposed the reality there. Now it is our turn to respond.

    _ The United States and Israel must immediately and completely cease the occupation and massacre of Palestine!

    _ Israel must lift the blockade on the Gaza Strip and cease the illegal seizure of civilian vessels and unlawful arrests!

    _ The South Korean government must strongly protest Israel’s illegal abductions, arrests, and mass killings!

    _ South Korean government agencies and corporations such as Hanwha, Samsung, KAI, HD Hyundai, and Korea National Oil Corporation must immediately cease all cooperation with Israeli government entities and companies complicit in the genocide of Palestine!

    _ Jeju politicians and Governor Oh Young-hoon must not remain silent on Israel’s genocide and the illegal abduction of a Gangjeong peace activist!

    _ Hanwha, which collaborates with Israeli war weapons companies and contributes to the massacre of Palestinians, must leave Jeju!

    _ Gaza’s liberation is everyone’s liberation! Palestine’s liberation is everyone’s liberation!

    _ Free Free Palestine!

    Oct. 11, 2025

    From the Edges, Gangjeong Mission Station, Gangjeong Friends, Association of Gangjeong Villagers Against Jeju Naval Base, Gangjeong Peace Network, The Frontiers, Labor Party Jeju Provincial Party, Korean Confederation of Trade Unions Jeju Branch,Byeopssi School, People Making Jeju a Demilitarized Peace Island, St. Francis Peace Center, Songaksan Alddreu People, Civic Exercise Gathering, People Opposing Space Militarization and Rocket Launches, Justice Party Jeju Provincial Party, Jeju Gachi, Jeju Green Party, Jeju Dark Tours, Jeju Women’s Association, Jeju Association for Women’s Rights, Jeju Solidarity for Participatory Self-government and Environmental Preservation, Jeju Queer Pride Organizing Committee, Progressive Party Jeju Provincial Party, Inter-Island Solidarity for Peace of the Sea, Hot Pink Dolphins, Paran Ocean Citizen Science Center

    (Translation by Kaia ‘Curry’ Vereide)

    A photo by Licky Rooney (Lee Gil-hoon)

    For the original Korean text and more photos, go to https://cafe.daum.net/peacekj/UvsW/172

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  • For Haecho and the global citizens aboard the humanitarian flotillas’ safe return and for a Free Palestine!

    Photo by Ttochi/ Oct. 4th, 2025

    It has been over a week since Gangjeong peace activist Haecho set sail as a volunteer aboard the humanitarian flotilla ‘Thousand Madleens to Gaza’ bound for Gaza. The flotilla is expected to reach Gaza’s territorial waters within a week.

    We earnestly pray that Haecho, who courageously joined this arduous journey, reaches the Gaza coast, delivers relief supplies like milk powder and food to the starving people, and returns safely. We also strongly demand that the United States and Israel immediately and unconditionally cease the massacre of Palestinians. We strongly urge the South Korean government to take all necessary measures to protect its citizen participating in the humanitarian flotilla.

    Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s invasion, massacres, and systematic starvation policy have resulted in the death of approximately 67,000 Palestinians. According to a UN report, one in three people go hungry all day, and one in five households suffer from extreme food shortages. The majority of victims are women, children, and the elderly. The deaths of non-human beings living on Palestinian land and sea cannot be properly documented or quantified.

    In July 2024, the International Court of Justice concluded that Israel’s long-term occupation, settlement, and annexation policies in Palestine violate international law. However, the United States has vetoed six UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. In late September, Trump and Netanyahu presented a ‘Gaza peace plan’ that did not explicitly mention the establishment of a Palestinian state as demanded by the international community. This peace plan effectively demands the unconditional surrender of Hamas, which in fact governs the Gaza Strip, and amounts to nothing less than a deceptive plan for the United States and Israel to permanently dominate Palestine.

    The South Korean government remains among the 35 countries out of 193 that have yet to recognize Palestine as a state, despite 158 nations having done so. The South Korean Navy also faced condemnation for inviting Israeli naval commanders to the maritime weapons exhibition held in Busan this past May. Furthermore, Dana Petroleum, wholly owned by the Korean public corporation Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC), secured exploration rights for gas fields in Palestinian waters illegally sold by Israel. Meanwhile, war weapons companies like Hanwha Systems, Hanwha Aerospace, and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) have formed partnerships with Israeli arms firms, complicit in Israel’s massacre of Palestinians. Hanwha Systems is constructing a space center in the Jeju mid-mountain area. Satellites produced there are likely to be used for military purposes, potentially becoming tools for further massacres. Samsung mobile phones distributed in the Middle East and North Africa, including Palestine, came pre-installed with Israeli spyware, victimizing masses of users. HD Hyundai excavators are used to demolish Palestinian homes and build illegal Jewish settlements. The recent proposal by the Korean National Assembly for a ‘Resolution Urging Israel to Halt the Massacre in the Gaza Strip’ at least lessens the shame for those living in a country that has stood with the perpetrator of genocide.

    The ‘Thousand Madleens’ humanitarian flotilla (11 ships) and the ‘Sumud Flotilla’ (42 ships) bound for Gaza have carried hundreds of beautiful citizens from over 50 nations who set sail to stop the unrelenting slaughter and starvation, to turn fear into hope. Our friend Haecho is proudly one of them. In a letter before departure, Haecho wrote, “When I embrace my fear, and approach it with different attitudes, I learn that when we feel fear we can also experience a will toward beauty or hope.” This learning and awareness came from sailing the waters of Jeju Island and East Asia, meeting people along the way. “I carry this precious learning and support with me to Gaza,” she stated. She also shares that while participating in the ‘Grand March for Life and Peace’ in Jeju and the ‘Birds and People’s March’ on the mainland, she felt “On the road and on the sea, I feel my body becoming a conduit connecting here and there, me and you, past and future.” She believes that “through solidarity with the people of Jeju, Saemangeum, Okinawa, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Palestine, and countless others, we can break through the blockade imposed by capital and military might.” Having visited Gangjeong as a teen, Haecho, now in her twenties, participated in the 2023 Gong Pyeong Hae (共平海) voyage connecting Taiwan, Okinawa and Jeju, the 2024 voyage of the Golden Rule ship—a symbol of the anti-nuclear movement—and the planned 2025 Jeju-DMZ voyage. Gangjeong and Jeju were her training grounds for peace activism.

    On the afternoon of October 3rd, Korean time, news broke that all 42 vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including the Mikeno ship near the Gaza coast, had been attacked and seized by Israel. The ‘Thousand Madleens’ flotilla, to which Haecho belongs, is also expected to face raids and seizures, causing grave concern. Citizens worldwide are watching Gaza. Climate activist Greta Thunberg appealed for greater solidarity among citizens, saying, “Be human!” Upon hearing news of the attack on the Sumud flotilla, countless people took to the streets in protest across the globe—in Germany, France, Greece, Tunisia, Turkey, Italy, Argentina, Mexico, and elsewhere. Workers in Genoa, who had already blocked weapons shipments bound for Israel, sealed off railways and train stations. Spain, which had sent its own warship to protect the Gaza humanitarian flotilla, recalled its Israeli diplomat. The Colombian government ordered the expulsion of Israeli diplomats and terminated its free trade agreement with Israel. Turkish prosecutors stated their intent to investigate whether Israel violated international law by arresting over 20 Turkish citizens, specifically regarding deprivation of liberty and seizure of means of transport. The Malaysian Prime Minister held talks with foreign leaders, requesting support for the immediate release of Malaysian activists and firmly demanding an end to Israel’s atrocities and plunder against Palestine. Given the peril faced by its own citizen, one cannot help but compare and closely watch the South Korean government’s future response.

    We stand with the countless global citizens who support the humanitarian flotillas to Gaza and demand an end to the U.S. and Israeli occupation and massacre of Palestine. We strongly demand the following from the South Korean government and corporations, the United States, and Israel:

    One. Israel must lift the blockade on the Gaza Strip and immediately cease the seizure of civilian vessels! Ensure the safety of the international citizens who were aboard the hijacked humanitarian flotilla and release them all immediately and unconditionally!

    One. Israel must guarantee that all relief supplies reach the people of Gaza, who are suffering extreme hardship due to prolonged massacres and starvation policies!

    One. The South Korean government and National Assembly must take all measures to protect their citizen aboard the humanitarian flotilla and strongly protest Israel’s violations of international law and human rights abuses!

    One. The South Korean government must recognize Palestine as an independent state and cease all cooperation with Israel, a criminal state that thoroughly disregards international law!

    One. Korean government agencies and corporations such as Hanwha, Samsung, KAI, HD Hyundai, and Korea National Oil Corporation must immediately cease all cooperation with the Israeli government and companies which are complicit in the massacre of Palestinians!

    One. The United States and Israel must withdraw their deceptive Gaza peace plan and cease all aggression and massacres!

    Liberation of Gaza is liberation for all!

    Liberation of Palestine is liberation for all!

    Free Free Palestine!

    October 4, 2025

    From the Edges, Gangjeong Mission Station, Association of Gangjeong Villagers Against Jeju Naval Base, Gangjeong Peace Network, The Frontiers, People Making Jeju a Demilitarized Peace Island, St. Francis Peace Center, Civic Exercise Gathering, Jeju Green Party, Inter-Island Solidarity for Peace of the Sea, Hot Pink Dolphins

    (Translated by Curry)

  • Gangjeong Village Story: October 2024 to February 2025 Issue

    In this October 2024 to Feb 2025 issue:

    Protesting the Mobile Fleet Command in Jeju, the “Island of World Peace” / South Koreans Stop Authoritarian Power-Grab / Gangjeong Responds to Martial Law / “People’s Square” Against the Coup / Police Intimidation of the Human Chain / Jeju Youth Statement / The oil spill at the Jeju Naval Base… It took a month to make a ‘late report’ / US military sexually harassed women peace workers in Jeju / Father Kim Arrested / National Forum on Peace in Space / Opposing cluster bombs in Nonsan / Talks on our tasks in 2025 (feat. Trump and Musk) / Repression of the Soseong-ri Struggle / War drills to bring coup and war / For the Demilitarized Peace Island / Becoming each other’s scenery / Stop the Construction of a Death Runway! / Sewol Ferry Documentary Asks for Truth / From Tamil Eelam to Gaza: Whose Security? / Visiting Rohingya Refugee Camps in October 2024 / The Great Catastrophe, Genocide in Palestine, and our Solidarity / From Henoko to Peace / Guilty but righteous act to free beluga whale / Deokcheon-ri, a World Natural Heritage Village / Gangjeong Peace Movement Vision for 2025 / My experience in Gangjeong so far / To be a Christian Peacemaker / The life I learned in Gangjeong / Christine Ahn denied entry / Oh Cheol-geun Presente! / Ken Mayers, Presente!

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  • Yoon Seok-yeol must accept the National Assembly’s resolution demanding the lifting of emergency martial law, and Yoon Seok-yeol must resign!

    President Yoon Seok yeol declared emergency martial law. His proclamation to eliminate those who disagree with him by naming them as anti-state forces shows his ignorance of democracy. Just as war divides people into allies and enemies, and sets up people who are different as targets that must be killed, Yoon Seok-yeol is attempting to provoke a war that frames citizens as enemies.

    The main culprit who has brought about this situation in which we have to shout “abolish martial law, bring down the dictatorship” in 2024, and who has trampled on the democracy that countless people have struggled to advance with their blood, sweat, and tears is not the “anti-state forces” as President Yoon Seok-yeol said, but Yoon Seok- yeol himself. Yoon must stop his grave crime of destroying the constitutional order, he must immediately accept the National Assembly’s resolution demanding the lifting of martial law, and he must take responsibility and resign immediately!

    the pre-dawn of December 4, 2024

    Gangjeong Peace Network, Association of Gangjeong Villagers Against the Jeju Navy Base, and individuals condemning Yoon Seok-yeol’s declaration of emergency martial law and demanding the resignation of Yoon Seok-yeol

  • Gangjeong Village Story: January to September 2024 Issue

    In this January to September 2024 issue:

    Jeju Peace for the Sea Camp: Ongoing Relationships, Solidarity / Peace Camp Reflections / 2024 Jeju Grand March for Life and Peace / Beyond the time of resistance, we will build an era of peace / The Struggle is Not Over Yet / The Danger of Intensifying New Cold War / Stop the Saemangeum New Airport and Save the Sura Tidal Flats! / Korean Women’s Anti-Base Struggles / Korea Peace Action / Bruce K. Gagnon’s South Korea speaking tour on Space Industry and Militarization / U.S. and its allies: permanent war economies (Excerpts) / The expansion of space “war and slaughter” industries / “Cancel RIMPAC, which is complicit in genocide!” / The Military and Space Industry (excerpts) / Okinawa Peace March Solidarity / From a house with no one here / Taiwan Peace Journey: Solidarity Amid Differences / The Philippines is being thrust into war / Words and updates from the Sea of Peace and Coexistence / Showing Up in Gangjeong Village / Seongsan and ZAD: Airport struggle solidarity / Thank you for visiting / ‘Linear improvement’ plans threaten Gangjeong River / A New Office for the Peace Co-op / Peace University (Christian Peacemaker & Peace Voyager) & Something Peace (Some People & Something Week) / Protesting the notice of the 2nd airport basic plan / Cruise Consequences / Not guilty for urging release of beluga / We live in Miryang and Gangjeong / Intersectionality of Peace Movements and Urban Movements / 2nd Jeju Peace Theology Forum / Petitions to hold war criminals accountable / Rally in Jeju City for Palestine / Place, memories, and people disappear due to Gangjeong Village road expansion etc.

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  • Gangjeong Village Story: August to December 2023 Issue

    In this August to December 2023 Issue:

    Remembering the 6,000th day of the Gangjeong Struggle/ Jeju Grand March for Life and Peace/ Peace for the Sea International Camp in Miyako Island/ Gong Pyeong Hae- 1st Peace sailing project/ 5000km sailing completed/ Reflections After 100 Days at Sea/ 2023 Jeju Womens’ Peace Workshop “Empathy and Solidarity”/ Demilitarization and non-alignment/ Trilateral alliance launch and UNC revitalization/ South Korean Defense Budget Grows/ Arms dealer Hanwha is entering Jeju/ Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water dumping begins despite resistance/ Military Road Opens… / Stop the notice of the basic plan on the 2nd airport/ Finishing Season 1 of the Jeju Climate Peace March/ Gangjeong Village joins the Gunsan Climate Peace March/ Bijarim-ro trial update/ Standing with Palestine from Jeju/ The Beginning of Peace, Nanjing Massacre Memorial/ April 3rd still discussed and reflected upon/ Peace Voyager/ Peace School for Youth in Asia/ Korea Peace Appeal Delivers Signatures/ “The Field, a Space for Connecting Words” etc.

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