In its press release on Dec. 18th, the Jeju Islanders’
Emergency Committee to Stop the Jeju 2nd Airport (hereafter, ‘Island Committee’)
stated that total 507 internationals including Prof. Noam Chomsky and feminist
Gloria Steinem, as well as other renowned scholars and activists in the world signed
on the petition as of 7am, Dec. 18th (Korean time). Many of media in South
Korea covered the news of international petition as to draw attention from one
of main South Korean portal sites.
Some English articles regarding the international petition also came out. Please check them out, here (this article also explains some backgrounds around the issue)and here. For the Japanese language article of former, see here.
It is not so certain to what degree the international petition in opposition to the Jeju 2nd airport project has helped to change a course for the benefit of people. However, on Dec. 19th, Minister of Environment (MOE) announced its decision to demand supplements on the Jeju 2nd airport project-related Strategic Environment Impact Assessment (SEA) draft again to the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT), which was a great release for the people who oppose the project.
People’s worst imagination before MOE’s decision on Dec. 19th was that MOE might agree or conditionally agree with the MOLIT’s SEA draft, which must be followed by the MOLIT’s public notification on the Basic Plan of the Jeju 2nd airport project, making the project legal to the difficulty of people who oppose to it. In such circumstance, Kim Kyung-bae, a resident in the planned area of 2nd Jeju airport in Seongsan, eastern Jeju, has decided to carry out his 3rd time fast in front of MOE and MOLIT building in Sejong City, main land of Korea from Dec. 11th. (please see his story, here) Otherwise, the need of international petition to halt the project also came out from such urgent situation.
The result of people’s efforts is positive, one can say. Without MOE decision on the MOLIT SEA draft this time, the SEA draft is full of flaws, lies and missing. From its start on the project, the MOLIT has been focusing only to enforce the project for years, thoroughly ignoring many Islanders’ opinions against the project. However, its greed is now blocked by the MOE demand on supplement of SEA draft. There is no deadline defined for the MOLIT to give supplements to the current SEA draft which will be back to the MOE. Once MOLIT gives answer to MOE, the latter should make final decision of either agreement of disagreement with the SEA draft. People greatly want the MOE’s ultimate answer to MOLIT is latter because it would critically thwart the MOLIT’s drive for the Jeju 2nd airport project. It will be ideally good because the 2nd Jeju airport will be very likely to be an air force base. To halt the 2nd airport project means to stop further militarization of Jeju, also.
Therefore,
we are so grateful to all the internationals who signed to the petition during
this critical time.
The
MOE and other government institutes can pretend to ignore the news of
international petition. Still, some of the government employees such as one of
aids to the MOE Minister Cho clearly said that he saw the news. And he said he
would deliver the internationals petition to Minister Cho. We hope Minister Cho
and President Moon Jae-in, and other politicians sincerely hear international voice.
The issues of Jeju 2nd airport is not only for the Jeju islanders. As
the petition reads, it is much related to our effort to save the Earth and
human beings from environment destruction, democracy regression, militarization
and moreover climate crisis. We so thank internationals who shared concerns.
Our update on the struggle will be continued. And collecting signs for the petition is continued. If you haven’t signed to the petition yet, please take one minute for sign (please choose one language per person). If you have done, please consider to spread petitions so that we can more pressure South Korean politicians to halt the project!
Here
are the petitions again for your reference. Please spread it. In each petition,
you can see the names of signers who agreed for their signature to be made public.
Upon the 10th remembrance year of the blasting of the Gureombi Rock coast for the Jeju navy base construction, 40 international solidarity messages have arrived from March 1st to 7th.
The struggle against Jeju naval base has been a truly international one, which shows the struggle for peace can seldom be a local one. We thank and remember all the international friends who have expressed solidarity to the struggle. The peace-loving people in the world will end wars and militarism together. We especially thank 40 internationals who recently sent us solidarity messages:
Christine Ahn, Dennis Apel, Sharon Chung, Felice and Jack Cohen-Joppa, Jacqui Deveneau, Leonard Eiger, Bruce K. Gagnon, Heidi and Bruno, Martha Hennessy, Jane Jin Kaisen, Kyle Kajihiro, Yuchi Kamoshita, Eugene Kang, George Katsiaficas, Kristyn, Dohee Lee, Jon Letman, Grant M Leuning, Paul Liem for the Korea Policy Institute, Ramsay Liem, Seth Martin, Natasha Mayers, Lisa Natividad, Nodutdol, Okimoto Fukiko, Okimoto Hiroshi, Codie Otte, Paco, Koohan Paik-Mander, Nare Park, Juyeon JC Rhee, William H. Slavick, Tom Smith, Sara Spriggs, Mary Beth Sullivan, Toshio Takahashi, David Vine, Russell Wray, Angie Zelter
Add. on March 8: Hey W E Cheung, Tarak Kauff
Add. on March 11: Women’s Voices Women Speak
See the Korean translation, here. You can see the original request message at the bottom.
………………
Christine Ahn
We send you our heartfelt gratitude for your peace activism which has inspired so many around the world. One decade ago, as Gureombi was being blasted and Gangjeong destroyed, the world watched with horror how a democratic country like South Korea could allow this naval base to be built to project US power against China. As war rages on in Ukraine and tensions between the US and China intensify over Taiwan, we must double our efforts to push back against the drive to further militarize the Asia Pacific and our world. We send our love and dedication to join you in struggle. Christine Ahn and Jeju Ahn-Miles
Dennis Apel
To my friends on Jeju Island and especially in Gangjeong Village. Ten years ago I was honored to join you in an epic struggle to resist the construction of the Naval Base there. As an activist in the United States who has known resistance and been arrested many times and imprisoned three times, my arrest on Jeju Island was perhaps the proudest of my life. I have never witnessed a struggle more dedicated, persistent, soul-centered and inspiring as was, and is, the struggle with which you have gifted the world. It is my deep conviction that, in spite of the fact that there is now a Naval Base where once was the sacred Gureombi Rock, you have been instruments for the salvation of humanity by your willingness to suffer for the sake of beauty against the onslaught of darkness and destruction. I honor your commitment and efforts and thank you for allowing me to be part of it. In gratitude for who you are…
Sharon Chung
Respect and honor to the mighty people of Gangjeong that have continued the people’s resistance and fight against the destruction of Gureombi, the pollution of the beautiful waters around Gangjeong and shutting down the Jeju naval base!
My spirit and heart continue to mourn for the destruction of Gureombi and the brutality against the peoples resistance who oppose the escalation of war and militarism. In solidarity, we must continue to resist and oppose the powers of militarism and imperialism that puts war and profits over people. I support the on-going resistance in Gangjeong and fight to SHUT DOWN JEJU NAVAL BASE!
Felice and Jack Cohen-Joppa
No to the desecration and destruction of sacred places – Yes to life and peace!
Our deep respect and gratitude to all of the good people who defended Gureombi Rock – and all those who have acted, gone to jail, spoken out and prayed for peace on the Island of Peace… and continue to do so.
Solidarity and love across the miles, always, from the Sonoran desert,
Felice and Jack Cohen-Joppa
The Nuclear Resister, Tucson, Arizona, U.S.
Jacqui Deveneau
My name is Jacqui Deveneau. I am from Maine in the US. Many Peace activists in Maine have known of and support the people of Jeju. I have been following all of this and sharing all that Sung-hee Choi has shared. It is heart breaking what they did to the Gureombi rock. It is very hard to live in the US and know all the inhumane things our government and military have done all around the world to cause so much death and strife. My wish would be that the US would restore the “Peace Island” to its people.
Leonard Eiger
Dear friends in the struggle of justice for Jeju,
Thank you for the opportunity to send a message of solidarity. It is important to never give up in our resistance and to mark these important dates and events. I send this message on behalf of all of us at Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action in Poulsbo, Washington, USA, where we are located next to the Bangor Trident nuclear ballistic missile submarine base, home to the largest deployed concentration of nuclear weapons in the United States. Some of our members have travelled to Jeju to participate in your resistance work. Your struggle is our struggle as well, and we are with you to the end of that struggle.
With Thanks and In Peace,
Leonard Eiger, on behalf of Ground Zero Center
Greetings and solidarity from all of us at Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action on the 10th remembrance year of the destruction of the sacred Gureombi Rock on Jeju Island. Although the violent, militaristic powers of empire have desecrated your beautiful Island of Peace, you still stand strong in your peaceful, collective spirit against violence, militarism and war. We stand with you, and will continue working for the day when the people of Jeju Island, and all the world’s people, live free from war and the suffering it causes.
Derek Emmons
Even across an ocean, we send love and prayers of perseverance for your protection and remembrance of this sacred space. While I have never set foot on Jeju, I recognize this is a place that reminds all of us in diaspora of who we are and how we connect at the core, to land, sea, and source. I have so much respect for you, as taking on an empire and being at the foreline of military imperialism takes more than anyone on the outside can know. I pray you take care of yourselves, your bodies, minds, and hearts, and perhaps through current and future alliships and solidarity, there will be forward movement to restore Jeju’s web of life. With Love, Derek (Grandson of a Warbride)
Bruce K. Gagnon
It is with mixed feelings that I send this solidarity message from the Global Network. First, it is with great sadness that we come to the 10th anniversary of the destruction of sacred Gureombi Rock.
But my other feeling is deep respect and gladness that the resistance to this outrageous naval base continues in the village and around the world.
Due to great organizing to oppose the base people all over the globe know about, and care about, Gangjeong village and its spirit.
We know that the US, and an ever expanding NATO, are planning big military operations aimed at China and Russia in your region in the times ahead.
Thus the spirit of resistance to this aggression by the US and its misguided allies remains more important than ever.
We pledge our un-ending loyalty and support for the positive and peaceful resistance against the naval base in Gangjeong.
Bruce K. Gagnon, Global Network Against Weapons & Nuclear Power in Space
Heidi and Bruno
See the video message here. (forwarded by the Frontiers)
It is the 10th anniversary of the blasting of Gureombi.
We are Heidi and Bruno Sägesser from Switzerland. In 2018 we met Brother Song and his family in Korea and we are glad to know them. Since then our thoughts and prayers have been with Jeju.
Brother Song was imprisoned from March 2020 to October 2021. During that time we felt sorry from our hearts. During those nearly 2 years we joined petitions many times. Today, the 10th anniversary of the blasting of Gureombi is a day of remembrance and mourning.
We cannot understand why our brother Song was locked up so long like that and we cannot understand why the military who stole the land and destroyed Gureombi Rock are not being punished.
We send our greetings to all of you in Jeju and Korea. We hope that your nonviolent resistance will always have strength and courage, creativity and confidence.
Martha Hennessy
This World Heritage site is lost forever to us, especially to the people of Jeju.
God created such a unique phenomenon of this mother rock that was loved, held, and caressed by the people born to her. What a crime and sin, to destroy her in the name of war making. The idolatry of war demands innocent victims and so many have suffered the violence. But we have a vision that will never be taken away from us and we will make it come true. The peaceful paradise of Jeju will become a beautiful garden again when the war empire crumbles.
Hey W E Cheung
I hope we can be there with you guys yesterday. It is not easy to talk about peace these days and with the strong oppression as a large net that no one in the world can easily escape. On this remarkable day, I hope we can have more confident with people around us so we can share more to face our fear with love but not hate. Thank you for sharing the courage of loving the world and each other.
May our memory make more justice.
Jane Jin Kaisen
In the spring of 2011 I used to come to Gangjeong often. At the time I was living in Jeju, a place I consider my ancestral home and that I hold deep in my heart. I was there to make a film about the memories of the Jeju Massacre and how this violent and traumatic event is not just of the past but resonates in the present moment. The Gangjeong struggle was at its height and civilians and activists were putting their lives and freedom at stake in their fierce and heartbroken protests against the naval base in a recognition of how its construction would mean a remilitarization of the island that would jeopardize peace.
Many mornings I would walk to the seashore, sometimes alone, sometimes accompanied by others like the morning when we did 100 bows at dawn with Gureombi Rock peaking out of the ocean carpet in the distance.
There is no longer a Gureombi Rock. A sacred place was shattered to pieces to pave way for the base. Its removal is one of the visible signs of just how much is lost to the logics of control and militarization. Along with that loss is the loss of sea life and peoples’ livelihoods. But what I learned in Gangjeong from people who resisted and are still resisting the base and structures of exploitation and power, and who spent years protesting, praying and building alternative visions, is something that can never be taken away, a deep sense of compassion, solidarity, and insistence that other worlds are possible.
From Jane Jin Kaisen, artist, filmmaker and professor of art living in Copenhagen
Kyle Kajihiro
Aloha friends and fellow kia’i (protectors) in Jeju! I was blessed to visit Gangjeong at the beginning of your struggle, before the destruction. I will always remember the beauty and sacred power of the land and sea, and the brave spirit of the people. I felt as if I was home in Hawai’i. I mourn with you the destruction of Gureombi for war making, as we mourn the destruction of Pu’uloa (aka “Pearl Harbor”) to create a war base. But i celebrate the powerful and joyful movement you have become. Jeju will help to guide us to a better and more peaceful future! Thank you!
Kyle Kajihiro, member of Hawaiʻi Peace and Justice and Oʻahu Water Protectors
Yuchi Kamoshita
NaMuMyoHoRenGeKyo
What is the true meaning of non-violence ?
It is to understand the people who are on the opposite side.
It is not giving up that anyone can change their minds.
Gureombi Rock, a symbol of nature & peace.
I thank you for your kindness.
yuichi kamoshita
Eugene Kang
Dear Gangjeong,
Deep respect and love, as we honor 10 years of resistance since the destruction of the sacred Gureombi Rock, desecrated by the construction of the US naval base.
As a Korean in diaspora, I had the privilege of visiting Gangjeong in 2013, and again in 2014. Never before have I felt more connection to my Korean identity and ancestors. I was able to spend time with the most amazing community of people, and camped along the Gangjeong Cheon, in the powerful, palpable presence of Gureombi. It is hard to find the words for the feeling of injustice and sorrow and mourning for the destruction of such sacred land and life. The war machine moves rapidly and without conscience, but I know the fierce spirit of Gangjeong is unbreakable.
Peace and power to the people of Gangjeong! Sending love and respect to those who have been putting their lives on the line in the struggle against the US naval base and further militarization in Jeju, defending the sacred Gureombi Rock, precious land, and life in Gangjeong Village. Thank you for showing me, and the world, what resilience truly looks like. I stand forever with you. Toojeng!
Eugene Kang
Oakland, CA
George Katsiaficas
Today, humanity and all life on this planet are threatened with a crisis of extinction. World leaders, the so-called “best and brightest“ of each nation, instead of combining forces to combat environmental devastation, ally with one another to fight petty wars over inconsequential objectives. The beautiful honeymoon island of Jeju has been caught in great power dynamics that not only have destroyed the pristine environment of reefs and coastline but also encouraged US military encirclement of China, thereby creating the preconditions for such conflicts such as now raging in the Ukraine. The struggle in Jeju is on the frontlines of the planetary struggle to end wars and to stop the ongoing destruction of the our planet.
George Katsiaficas,
Author and activist
Tarak Kauff
I visited Gangjeong Village in 2015 along with other U.S. military veterans to stand in solidarity with the courageous people resisting the destructive building of a South Korean naval base that we all knew would be used to allow U.S. Navy warships to dock there. I was horrified to learn of the blasting and paving over with concrete of a natural wonder, Gureombi Rock, which was sacred to the people of Gangjeong Village. That was a crime not only against the people of the Village, but against nature itself. I applaud the courage and determination of all the people resisting this naval base and please know that members of Veterans For Peace, not only myself and those who were there are in solidarity with their struggle.
Kristyn
My name is Kristyn, and I’m a Korean American farmer in California. I think of friends and comrades in Gangjeong each day, and thank you for the ways you have protected your land and community. I understand how heartbreaking it is to see this sacred place exposed to this violence, but hope that your spirits can remain intact. Please know that we stand in solidarity with the farmers and fishers of Gangjeong, now and forever.
Dohee Lee
(Originally in Korean text)
Through art and spirituality activism, I send a solidarity message for peace in my homeland, Jeju, and solidarity for peace and justice along with the Ohlone people who are native to Oakland, California where I live.
The land is our mother and ancestor. Stopping the destruction and subjugation of the land is the culture cultivated by our ancestors and it is to protect our future descendants.
예술영성운동으로 제주 고향땅의 평화와 제가 살고있는 캘리포니아 오클랜드 올로니 땅의 원주민과 함께 땅의 정의와 평화를 위한 연대의 메세지를 보내드립니다.
땅은 우리의 어머니이고 조상입니다. 땅의 훼손과 탄압을 막음은 조상의 일궈온 문화와 미래의 자손을 지키기 위함입니다. – 센프란시스코 베이지역 오클랜드에서 푸리아트 이도희-
Dohee Lee (She/Her), Puri Arts Director/Performance Artist/Ritualist/Educator
Jon Letman
The beautiful, spiritual, and irreplaceable Gureombi Rock coastline of southern Jeju island was and always will be a special and important place. Despite the decimation and destruction that took place, the spirit of peace remains strong there and in the surrounding areas, embodied in the fierce, but peaceful, tireless efforts of all who speak and act out against violence and militarism and continue to demand peace. May their efforts remain strong and lead to victory in the form of a world without war.
Grant M Leuning
My dear friends, may this message of love and solidarity find you well. I am one of so many who have been with you in Gangjeong who do not know the feeling of Gureombi Rock beneath my feet. And yet, as this anniversary approaches I feel a profound sadness and mourning for this place that I have not seen. Your daily practice of resistance that has allowed me and thousands like me to see Gureombi, to pray with Gureombi, to shout with Gureombi, to miss Gureombi rock and mourn with you on this anniversary. For that reason, as much as this date is the mark of a catastrophe, it is also the mark of a miracle. You are the miracle. The community that you have built through your endless struggle has not only kept the faith alive, that Gureombi rock will be returned to us, but has also shown us how resistance and protest can build something new, greater than a naval base, the culture of life and peace itself. 대지와 해방, 구럼비 보고 싶다, 강정마을 사랑해
Grant Leuning, Comité Magonista Tierra y Libertad
Paul Liem for the Korea Policy Institute
Beneath the concrete, Gureombi rock lives. Geopolitics and porous concrete are impermanent, fleeting, but Gureombi is steadfast, everlasting. Ten years since Gureombi was blasted with dynamite, and seventy years since Korea was divided are mere specks in time in the geology of Gangjeong’s coastline and in the history of the Korean people and nation. How arrogant and mean-spirited are the U.S. and R.O.K militaries to strut upon Gureombi rock, as if they own it. Gureombi belongs to the world’s people, under the stewardship of the Gangjeong villagers, and is the property of no one. As surely as the day will come when Korea is One, the brave villagers of Gangjeong will blast away the concrete, and sunlight will fall, again, upon Gureombi rock.
Paul Liem
For the Korea Policy Institute
Ramsay Liem
A ten year anniversary should be a joyous time. But for Gureombi and the people of Jeju Island and the Korean mainland who love her, it is a tragedy that only serves the militarism of those who would sacrifice pristine nature for ships of war. Deep respect for Gangjeong people and their supporters who have never given up the fight to preserve the spirit of Gureombi as a refuge of peace for all living things. You inspire the world in a time of great uncertainty.
Ramsay Liem For the Channing and Popai LIem Education Foundation
Seth Martin
[Ten] years have passed since the brutal violation, attempted murder, and imprisonment of Gureombi by corporate and military profiteers and their cowardly followers. Just days before she was dynamited in March 2012, I felt Gureombi’s beating heart through my feet when a large group of us took part in a holy mass for and with her. We had to kayak to Gureombi’s shoreline, since her abusers had already fenced off all public entrances to Gureombi by land. We sang and wept together, and many of us were arrested that day. Gureombi filled all of us with love, strength, and righteous rage. When I sang on her surface, I felt Gureombi singing through me.
Now, whenever I sing or talk about Gureombi, I feel the weight covering Gureombi’s mangled body pressing down on my chest, and struggle not to choke over the concrete, shiny glass, and smiling lies used to continually smother Gureombi and the story of Gangjeong’s resistance with perverse narratives of “Progress”, “Self-Defense”, and–worst of all–forced, forgetful, silence.
Gureombi changed my life forever. Gureombi enflamed my heart with courage and anger and love. Gureombi welcomed me as her child, and commanded me to sing her song wherever I go, to share her pain and love and power with any struggle I am part of. How can I keep from singing?
I borrow the words of Utah Phillips to say what I know: Gureombi and Gangjeong did not die, and neither are dying now: Gureombi and Gangjeong are being killed, and the people killing them have names and addresses. We are the grasses growing from the still-beating, but concrete-covered heart of Gureombi. Ours are the voices remaining of the murdered creatures who called Gureombi Mother and Home, and sang her song to us. We must keep singing Gureombi’s song and weeping Gureombi’s tears, and refuse to accept the lie that Gureombi is no more and can never return. Because, as Malvina Reynolds used to sing, “The concrete gets tired, from what it has to do, it breaks and it buckles, and the grass grows through. God bless the grass.”
Mother Gureombi, like the sea grasses, we are your children. Give us strength to break apart all that smothers your heart and ours. We are on your side, and Spring is on ours.
–Seth Martin (Seth Mountain, 이산), March 5th, 2022
Natasha Mayers
To my noble brothers and sisters who have waged a most glorious struggle against the militarism of my country (USA) and yours:
You are in my heart forever after having spent a week with you in Ganjeong, occupying Gureombi Rock, being arrested for entering the forbidden zone after crawling under the hideous barbed wire.
You danced and sang and fed us and taught us your history and inspired us to keep going with our activism in the U.S. protesting the Aegis destroyers built in our state.
Your vision and patience and courage are inspirational!
With love,
Natasha Mayers
Whitefield, Maine, USA
Lisa Natividad
Hafa adai (local greetings) from Guahan (Guam) in the Pacific! We stand in solidarity with the people of Gangjeong village on the 10th remembrance year of the blasting of the Gureombi Rock, where the Jeju navy base is now built. Our communities are victims of our geostrategic locations on the globe in the U.S.’s agenda for the containment of China. We must continue to defend our homelands. It is our wish that Jeju remains an island paradise of peace.
We are saddened to meet to remember these destructive events that are used for violence and war. On this occasion we also center in our minds the intention of peace throughout the Asia-Pacific region and Europe- in Ukraine and in Russia. It is at times such as these that we must stand strong and firm in our resolve for peace. Peace is the only option. We invoke the use of diplomacy and are reminded of the importance of respect in how we treat each other. It is the only way forward for all of humanity! May we find peace in our hearts so that it resonates throughout the whole world.
Nodutdol
On the 10th year anniversary of the blasting of Gureombi Rock to make way for Jeju Naval base, Nodutdol stands in solidarity with the villagers of Gangjeong who are justly fighting for their livelihood and sacred lands. The destruction of Gureombi Rock is representative of the destructive nature of South Korean militarism and US imperialism all over the globe. Those who try to sacrifice our homelands, our shared environment, and our people for their selfish gains have no consideration for history and no vision for the future. Koreans overseas recognize and uphold your struggle as one of our own, and together we will close the bases and restore our lands. Toojeng!
Okimoto Fukiko
I send you this message from my heart. I have visited Gangjeong with other women who oppose [the US base construction in] Henoko. I remember as if it was yesterday how we cried to see that the situation was just like Henoko.
Now, I am furiously angry about Russia/Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Those who are being sacrificed in the war are the citizens and soldiers of Ukraine and soldiers of Russia.
Russian soldiers, throw away your weapons right now! People of Ukraine, don’t take up arms!
I fervently hope that people of Russia and people of Ukraine will hold each other’s hands and people of the world who wish for peace will stand in solidarity, so that Putin and Zelenskyy will meet to dialogue in person. Ukraine does not need weapons; they don’t need bases or armies. In Jeju, as well as Ukraine and anywhere in the world, there must be no weapons that kill people or militaries or bases. With my whole heart I wish for a world with no war.
For the 10th year since the blasting of Gureombi, a solidarity message to all of you in Gangjeong who keep up the struggle and don’t give up.
Just as Gangjeong’s sea was destroyed as concrete flowed in to build the navy base, the tropical coral sea of Henoko/Oura Bay is being filled everyday with earth and sand to make a base for the US marines. The Ryukyu archipelago is being militarized. Local people’s lives are threatened and livelihoods are destroyed for no reason by the policies of the Korean, Japanese, and US governments. Like the sudden invasion of Ukraine by Russia, East Asia is also facing the threat of imminent war. Across the seas, across borders, let us join hands. We always gain courage from all of you in Gangjeong. We will raise our voices loudly. In Jeju and in Okinawa we don’t need all these bases. Through demilitarization of the islands of East Asia, we will stop the vortex of increased military spending and the threat of war! Though it may take time, the people of Jeju and Okinawa, and the people of East Asia will prevail!
Sending you strength as the struggle continues for over ten years. I visited Jeju and Gangjeong in 2014 when the gureombi was still somewhat intact. I felt lucky to have a buk and take a moment to drum as the waves met the gureombi. As a Korean adoptee in diaspora, experiencing the sacredness of the coastal rock was a profound moment. Although it was my first time being on and near gureombi, there was an undeniable power and beauty, and it has shaped my definition of what it means to be Korean even though i have not grown up or lived in Korea. The destruction of the coast by the US military is an abomination, and as the resistance continues on Jeju, i look forward to the day when there is no more war, or US imperialism. Much love and standing in solidarity with you all!
Paco
The tragic destruction of the sacred Gureombi rock was a loss for the whole world and the struggle to protect Gureombi, and preserve Jeju as an island of peace, has brought much emotional, physical, and spiritual pain. But amidst suffering and desperation, it has also been a beacon of hope for those who seek alternatives to the violence that appears to permeate everything around us. Never perfect, yet still a model for a different way to live in a world seemingly overcome with capitalist greed, selfish pursuits, and violent lust for war. Out of this movement, many seeds will sprout.
Koohan Paik-Mander
Jeju Island is the Island of Peace. And the word “Pacific” means “peace.” So, how ironic and heartbreaking that Jeju-do has been targeted (along with many other “key” islands) by the U.S. military machine to be used as a node from which to project violence toward China. This is the very antithesis of “peace.”
The blasting of the sacred Gureombi coastal habitat and the dredging of the biodiverse coral forests are also the antithesis of peace. The blasting of Gureombi is a grave crime during this time of a species-extinction crisis and climate catastrophe. We should be nurturing the regeneration of ecosystems, not killing them. Gureombi provided a habitat for many species that sequestered greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Mother Gureombi was taking care of everyone on Planet Earth. It has been a decade since you were taken away from us, but we will never forget your love. In fact, we have become your Love.
Koohan Paik-Mander
Nare Park
precious gureombi.
you had become the ocean when we finally came. it was late fall five years after. we came and stood with you, and danced with those who protect life as a submarine docked at the base. two nights before, in gyeongsangbukdo elders laughed with us and sang songs cursing war. those elders, who had handed us steaming eomuk tang to chase off the cold night, barricaded in a shipping container the next day and stood in the way of two militaries. behind one of those militaries is the latest state on that land that wields power over the people, over you. behind the second was the state that blasted us, tore at our spirits, separated us from you. now we are becoming the ocean too. we are with you. we greet you in the morning and cry for you at night. may you be unearthed.
may we dance together on the ashes of the jeju naval base and all military bases.
welcome to a new day, our gureombi.
from a member of anti-imperialist, anti-racist gyopo group visit, november 2017
Juyeon JC Rhee
Nodutdol for Korean community development, located in New York City in the US has been visiting and standing with villagers and peace-keepers of Gangjeong village since 2010. We are deeply saddened on this 10th commemorative anniversary – blasting of the Gureombi Rock coast. We still see the Gureombi Rock in our minds. The Gureombi Rock is still our sacred base for livelihood and spiritual growth in maintaining our commitment to fight against militarism and to build true peace in Jeju Island and the world. Sisters and brothers, each of us are the Gureombi Rock when we are peace-keepers. Toojeng!
William H. Slavick
Jeju’s fate
We live in a time when it has become quite clear that conditions for human life and its necessities are finite, yet we continue to level, obliterate, waste, burn, and pollute as if Earth is ever regenerate of whatever we destroy. Jeju’s fate should model the environmental responsibility its conversion to war purposes flouted.
William H. Slavick, Pax Christi Maine
Tom Smith
Courageous Gangjeong Island villlagers waged a crucial struggle against the militarization of their home and I was honoured to join in solidarity. Militarization tears the social fabric and communities of resistance are our only hope against it. Despite it being blasted and now occupied by war machines, one day Gureombi will return to its people. What a priviledge to have been able to join this struggle! I have no doubt the people’s struggle will continue to inspire future movements for demilitarition and peace – which are both crucial for the survival of our species.
Sara Spriggs
I visited Jeju Island in 2014. I will never forget what I witnessed there. The sacred beauty of Gureombi rock and beach. The power, love, commitment, strength, emotion, humor, resilience, and relationships of the people who refuse to give up. You welcomed us, strangers, and fed us a delicious meal. Your struggle against US imperialism protects not only Jeju but all of Asia and the Pacific, and all our kin across the world from military expansion. You inspire the world. The world is watching and supports you. I am so grateful to you. Seeing your devotion to the land that nourishes life truly changed me. We support you Jeju!
Love, Sara Spriggs in Oakland, California, USA
Mary Beth Sullivan
We send a message of solidarity to the people of Gangjeong Village, Jeju Island who continue to inspire the world with their persistent prayer and fierce resistance to the militarism that buried their sacred, rocky shore. We mourn March 7, 2012, when the blasting of Gureombi Rock began. The people who live the Gangjeong Village struggle inspire everyone on earth who refuses to be intimidated by the bullies of militarism. You give your lives to honor the sacredness of the natural world. Your efforts show the path to survival for the 21st Century. May your strong spirit continue to lead the way.
From Mary Beth Sullivan, Social Worker in Maine, USA, advisory board member of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space.
Toshio TAKAHASHI
This year is the 50th year since Okinawa’s reversion [from US to Japanese control].
50 years ago, our predecessors hoped for an Okinawa without US bases, but after the reversion, not only US bases, but also Japanese self-defense force bases are multiplying one after another.
Stop the structural discrimination against Okinawa! US forces, get out of Asia!
With love, friendship, solidarity and thanks, Toshio TAKAHASHI Ginowan-city Okinawa JAPAN
Many more than a hundred people from Okinawa have visited the persistent struggle of Gangjeong Villagers against the navy base, and met and connected in solidarity with the local villagers, their supporting colleagues, and people who have joined the struggle from around the world. For many years, while struggling to oppose base construction in Henoko and Takae, Futenma and Kadena, Miyako Island, Ishigaki and Yonaguni Islands, and on Okinawa Island, we have encouraged each other across the sea. Now we can’t come and go for exchange events because of the COVID pandemic covering the world, but our hearts are always one. We will continue to be with you. Tujaeng!
오키나와는 올해 [반환50년]입니다. 우리 선배들은 50년전에는 미군기지 없는 오키나와를 희망했지만, [반환]후 미구기지 분만아니라 일본 자위대기지까지 연이어 많아졌습니다. 구조적 오키나와 차별을 타파! 미군은 아시아에서 떠나라!
사랑, 우정, 연대, 그리고 감사로
Toshio TAKAHASHI Ginowan-city Okinawa JAPAN
2022年3月3日
沖縄からの連帯メッセージ
高橋年男（沖縄・韓国民衆連帯）
海軍基地に反対する江汀村の粘り強い闘いの現場には、沖縄から、100人をはるかに超える人々が訪問し、地元の住民や支援の仲間たち、そして世界中から闘いに馳せ参じた人々と出会い、連帯のきずなでつながってきました。この長い時間、辺野古・高江で、普天間・嘉手納で、宮古島・石垣島・与那国島で、沖縄もまた、基地建設に反対する闘いの渦中にあり、海を越えて励ましあってきました。世界中が新型コロナ感染に覆われた今は、お互いに渡航して交流ができませんが、心はいつも一つです。앞으로도 함께 하겠습니다. 투쟁!
David Vine
I had the privilege of visiting beautiful Gureombi and the equally beautiful movement that struggled so hard to save it. The destruction of the gorgeously intricate black volcanic rock, a sacred part of Gangjeong village, is an outrage and a crime that never had to occur. I am ashamed and apologize to the people of Gangjeong and South Korea and the region for the role that my government, the US government, played in the destruction and in the creation of the naval base that now sits awfully on the shoreline. The base has fueled the dangerous militarization of East Asia and should be closed. I hope people around the world take inspiration–as I do–from the brave movement of people that rallied to save Gureombi and that is still struggling to make the world more peaceful.
David Vine, Professor, American University, Washington, DC, USA
Women’s Voices Women Speak
Women’s Voices Women Speak stands in solidarity with Gangjeong on March 7th, 2022, the 10-year remembrance of the blasting of the Gureombi Rock to build yet another useless naval base. This is a grave injustice. As a collective of women resisting militarism in Hawaiʻi, where U.S. bases have desecrated Kanaka Maoli (indigenous) land and poisoned wai (fresh water), we see our struggle as interconnected with the struggle in Gangjeong. We are inspired by the people of Jeju Island who have demonstrated such courage and determination to protect their place known as a Peace Island. #SolidarityfromHonolulu #HawaiiforJeju #genuine_security (Sent by Kim Compoc)
Russell Wray
I first learned of your long and difficult struggle to protect Gangjeong Village, its people, lands and waters, and all the other life, and Peace itself, from my friend and fellow Mainer Bruce Gagnon. In 2015 I had the great opportunity to visit Gangjeong for a short (too short!) time with a Veterans for Peace delegation, where I was able to meet many of the wonderful activists and see for myself what remains of the extreme natural beauty. I also witnessed this beauty’s desecration that had resulted from the brutal demolition and covering over of Gureombi and construction of the war-making Navy base.
I remain deeply inspired by the incredible persistence, creativity, and bravery of your ongoing resistance to the insanity of militarism. Many, many thanks.
With Love and Solidarity,
Russell Wray
Angie Zelter
Dear Jeju peace campaigners,
I send you solidarity greetings on this sad 10th anniversary of the blasting of the precious Gureombi Rock. I remember so well the protests there and wish I could be with you again to aid you in your continuing struggle against the militarisation of your island of peace. Your protests have to continue and I hope you find the strength to continue your resistance.
I can hardly believe so much time has passed and the world is still at war contributing to the existential climate and biodiversity crises. The military are a major cause of these crises and all of us in our different ways must continue to work for disarmament and peace rather than allowing the continual preparations for war to destroy our world.
We are at a crucial time in the history of humankind and we need to act together to bring equity, justice, and compassion to all. We must work in solidarity with each other, across the false borders that try to separate us, in order to change the ways in which our governments, leaders and corporations are extracting and exploiting the resources of our planet through their military and economic power for the short term benefit of the very, very few which leaves the vast majority of the population and our environment in destitution, conflict and immense suffering.
You understand well that we all live or die together on this fragile planet. The struggle in Ganjeong is one that concerns us all as it is a struggle against the industrial war machine. You are brave, special war-resisters and an important part of our global peace loving community. I send you strength and love for the continuation of your struggle. I am with you always in spirit. Angie Zelter.
=======================
[Original request letter]
Dear friends around the world,
Hope you are very well in this hard time of COVID and wars..
We wonder whether some of you can write a short solidarity message (around 100 words) for Gangjeong upon the 10th remembrance year of the blasting of the Gureombi Rock (where the Jeju navy base is now built on).
For translation purposes, it will be great if we can have your messages no later than March 5th (In Korean time). If you can, please send a ~100 word message to gjengnews@gmail.com. We are very sorry for the short notice of this request.
Yet, we are requesting this because we are aware that the anti-Jeju navy base struggle has been truly international. Without the mention of the devotion by internationals, the struggle loses its profound meaning.
Gureombi Rock, a 1.2km length contiguous rock coast next to the Gangjeong sea was an absolute preservation area with many spring waters and inhabited by many species including endangered species. It was a sacred site itself.
The South Korean government forcefully built the base there despite people’s fierce resistance. And this year hits the 10th year since the blast of Gureombi Rock for base-building. The blast started on March 7th, 2012 and continued for two months that year (many parts were just buried under concrete, also). The base now serves for the United States Indo-Pacific strategy, contributing to increasing regional military tension.
We, the people in Gangjeong remember the day of March 7th with tragic feelings but also with the determination that we should close the base someday. The day also reminds us that we still have many tasks as Jeju Island is in danger of more militarization including the building of a new navy base entry road.
As wars and militarization extend throughout the world, we hope this is another small chance to connect us and to build stronger solidarity.
Jan. 23, 2021, marks 5000 days of struggle against the Jeju Naval Base in Gangjeong. Organized opposition to the naval base plans started on May 18, 2007. Over the next 5000 days, the anti-base movement endured attacks on local democratic decision making, false representation in the media, division of the village community, state violence used to suppress nonviolent resistance, destruction of the environment (notably of the Gureombi Rock coastline), and the militarization of Jeju, the supposed “Island of World Peace.” Over those 5000 days, this peace movement was sustained through candle-light gatherings, rallies, marches, community meals, religious ceremonies, appreciation of nature, creative expression through poetry, visual arts, music and dance, and an outpouring of solidarity from all over the globe.
International peace activists recognized that the Jeju Naval Base represented a threat to world peace, and that the peace movement in Gangjeong transcended national borders. Many people came to Gangjeong to join in solidarity against the naval base and many more shared the story of the Gangjeong peace movement with audiences around the world. By standing with the Gangjeong villagers’ struggle, many international activists also experienced oppression by the state: one person received an injunction order, one recieved an exit order, more than 23 people were denied entry to Korea, and more than 12 foreign activists were arrested.
Gangjeong international team collected solidarity messages in honor of Gangjeong’s 5000 days’ struggle against the Jeju Naval Base:
From Rev. Catherine Christie, National Council of Churches in Korea
5000 Days! My good friends of Gangjeong, warm greetings and hope for continuing strength. As I came to Korea in 2010 to work with the National Council of Churches in Korea, it was becoming deeply involved in the struggle of Gangjeong villagers. My first visit was in August 2011, with a delegation from Christian Council of Asia invited by the NCCK. That was before the fence totally surrounded Gureombi. We worshipped on Gureombi, heard the story of the Naval base, joined the Catholic Mass and the evening candlelight vigil with the villagers. A few weeks later the fence was completed, amid our great grief. In March 2012 I was in Seoul at a protest when news came the first blasting of Gureombi had begun. [Regina Pyon] was there too, and we wept together. My involvement with Gangjeong Village was one of the high points of my ministry in Korea. All the blessings of Life, Love and Peace be with you all.
From Ramsay Liem, Emeritus Professor, Boston College, Channing and Popai Liem Education Foundation
The Essence of Korea’s Pride – The Gangjeong Struggle – Many of my Korean American students tell me that K-Pop, Korean Dramas, Samsung, Hyundai, and the like are the reasons they have pride in their homeland. These are the visible symbols of the miracle on the Han River for them. What they do not understand, however, is the long and arduous struggle of Korean workers, farmers, and everyday citizens to build a truly just and democratic state out of the ashes of war in the face of powerful state and external antidemocratic forces. No better example exists than the Gangjeong villagers and their supporters who have sacrificed land, livelihoods, and bodies to fight the militarization of their island by state and foreign interests. The fortitude of the Gangjeong peace-makers is extraordinary and an example of Korea’s truest gift to peace-loving people of the world. Your 5000 day struggle is an inspiration to all and teaches us that the human capacity to seek justice is boundless.
From Kyle Kajihiro, Cancel RIMPAC Coalition, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa
Aloha friends in Jeju! Congratulations on this important milestone: 5000 days of struggle to keep Jeju as an island of peace. I fell in love with Jeju when I visited early in the struggle when the naval base plans were first announced. Volcanic peaks, lush forests, black lava shores, seas teeming with life, stone grandparents protecting villages—it looked and felt like Hawaiʻi, my home. Thank you for teaching and inspiring us with your creative, joyful, and fierce spirit of struggle. I will always remember your yellow banners fluttering over blue water as the image of our solidarity across the sea.
From Angie Zelter, founder of Trident Ploughshares and co-founder of the International Woman’s Peace Service
The ‘struggle against’ that continues in Gangjeong affects us all wherever we live. It is a struggle against militarism, fear and corporate power, and for real democracy, justice, equity, and peace. I was inside the naval base on 7th March 2012 when they blew up the Gureombi rock. It was a sad and shocking day when the military and corporations showed their abusive power to destroy. But it was also a time of solidarity and connection across cultures and between global peace lovers. We did not stop the explosions that day but we spoke truth to power, acting together, as we continue to do, for a better more humane and compassionate world.
From Lina Koleilat, ethnographer and historian at Australian National University
5000 days of everyday resistance, 5000 days of protest, of tears and joy, of disappointment and hope. 5000 days of prayers and lunches and dance. Visitors come and go, some from mainland, some from across the continents, but you stayed, you stayed rooted but not static. Respect to your resistance to militarism, to war and to empire. Respect to all of you beautiful people who have persevered for the rock, for the dolphins, for the sea and for all of us. Your daily struggle inspire us all! Strength and power to you all from Ngunnawal and Ngambri country from so called Australia. Sending you all big hugs!
From Takahashi Toshio, Okinawa Korea People’s Solidarity
What stands out in my memory is Sept. 5, 2012, when 10 people came from Okinawa to join the symposium in conjunction with the IUCN and to have an exchange program in Gangjeong. 4 of us were denied entry at Incheon Airport, and another person coming from Tokyo was also denied entry. (see photo.) I think that the Korean government denied us entry as we were going to Gangjeong from Okinawa and Japan because they were extremely frightened that the whole world would hear about the problem of the outrageous Jeju naval base construction. With support from people seeking peace all around the world, we struggle against the Jeju Naval Base, and through international solidarity for human rights and peace in Okinawa, we will resist against the new base construction at Henoko, as well. We are with you. Be strong! Peace! Solidarity!
What stands out in my memory is being denied entry to Korea when I traveled with Tomiyama-san and Takahashi-san from Okinawa Korea People’s Solidarity to join the struggle against the navy base in Gangjeong; Tomiyama-san and I were denied entry two times. I cannot forget the delight of living together during a week-long international exchange program for the first time, nor the the rigorousness of the struggle. The sirens suddenly sounded, and people ran to the base construction entrance and started their sit-in protest. I was surprised and inspired to see some women resist by wrapping their bodies in metal chains.
From Nisei Yuko, a Japanese-Korean living in Okinawa
I first learned about the Gangjeong struggle in Okinawa when I met Peace Wind members who were struggling against the navy base. Peace cannot be achieved by weapons. This fact is proven through the witness of human history. The human determination expressed in the steadfast solidarity of Gangjeong and Okinawa represents hope for the future. We need the ability to increase human imagination, not through hostility, but through peace. People in any era know that only those who do not carry weapons will build true peace. That is how I want to live.
오키나와에서 해군기지 반대 투쟁을 진행하는 “평화바람 “식구하고 만난것이 강정투쟁을 알게 된 출발이다. 평화는 무기로는 이룩할 수 없다.그것은 인류 역사가 증명하는 사실. 강정 그리고 오키나와에서 꾸준히 연대하는 인간의 의지는 미래에 남기는 소원이다. 인간의 상상력을 적대가 아니고 평화로 높일 노력이 필요하다. 사람들은 어떤 시대에도 무기를 안 가지는 사람만이 진실 평화를 짓겠다고 알 것이다. 나는 그렇게 살고 싶습니다. -오키나와 在住 재일동포 二世 兪渶子
From Merci Llarinas-Angeles, Peace Women Partners, Philippines
Support statement for Jeju on its 5000 Days of Struggle – “They may build the base on your land and waters, but do not let them conquer your spirit!” I spoke this at the Closing Ceremony of the Grand March for Life and Peace which I joined in 2015. Since then I have expressed my solidarity by writing and speaking about your brave struggle in the Philippines and other venues. You inspire me because you continue to plant seeds, harvest and dance to show that you will never give up. I can see that the forces of tyranny will lose their power, but the villagers of Gangjeong will not!
at the Closing Ceremony of the Grand March for Life and Peace in 2015
From Corazon Fabros, Vice President, International Peace Bureau
Gangjeong struggle is always in my heart since first visit in 2010 with No Bases friends from US, Okinawa, Guam and Korea. A meaningful, powerful learning experience on the struggle of people’s strong will to stop the base construction, that I promised to include Jeju as part of my No Bases advocacy. My second visit in 2018 was full of memories of Gureombi rocks where I once sat looking at the open unobstructed beautiful peaceful sea, feeling in my heart the strong determination of the people and prayed hard for those who lost their lives, imprisoned, sacrificed time and energy to fight. 5000 Days of the Gangjeong struggle represents a powerful peoples resistance and international solidarity that will lead to victory no matter how long and difficult it will take.
visiting Gangjeong
From Fr. Pat Cunningham, Columban Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Coordinator in Seoul
Many congratulations to all those who have played a part in the 5000 day struggle. As a missionary living in Korea I was grateful for the many opportunities to accompany International peace activists to Gangjeong. As an Irish man I was particularly happy to accompany Peadar King and the Irish documentary film crew during the shooting of ‘Jeju’s Aching Heart’. During the interviews I was able to get a first hand impression of deep personal agony and pain felt by the local residents and activists in their desperate struggle to resist the South Korean state as the police closed off access to the villagers’ sacred Gureombi. The short film also highlights the ongoing international dimension of the struggle which continues to this day as the local peace community continues to promote a culture of peace and nonviolence in the face of state oppression. Many congratulations on reaching this notable landmark in the ongoing struggle.
From Gloria Steinem (feminist journalist and activist) and Christine Ahn (Women Cross DMZ),
A Message of Love, Hope and Gratitude
We grew up in different times and on opposite coasts of the US, yet in August, 2011, we both wrote op-eds in The New York Times condemning the construction of a [de facto] US Naval Base on Jeju Island, just off the coast of South Korea.
Jeju, a jewel of an island is certainly one of the most beautiful places on earth. As Gloria wrote in The Arms Race Intrudes on Paradise, “[T]his naval base is not only an environmental disaster on an island less than two-thirds the size of Rhode Island, it may be a globally dangerous provocation besides.”
We lost that struggle. A once pristine fishing village has become a US military base, all in the name of protecting against China. Yet we remain united in our protection of Jeju Island, a paradise of beaches, ancient trees, and wild flowers blooming on warm volcanic slopes. Long called the Island of the Gods, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and listed as one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
All of us in the struggle to preserve Jeju Island have this goal in our daily consciousness, and maintain the friendships formed during our struggle to support the villagers of Gangjeong, those most threatened by the U.S. naval base. We’ve forged lasting friendships, and included Jeju Island in our lives.
For instance, Christine realized she was pregnant in Gangjeong, and upon returning to the US, she was harassed by the Lee Myung-bak Administration in South Korea for writing about her opposition to the [de facto] US base. When she called the South Korean Embassy to register her complaint, they responded, “Don’t call us, call the U.S. State or Defense Departments, they are the ones pressuring us to build this base.”
Gloria’s friendship helped Christine survive the attacks. When her beautiful daughter was born, Christine named her Jeju, as the spirit of the Gangjeong villagers was in her womb.
Altogether, Jeju, long known as the island of peace and women, is inspiring the next generation of peace activists who will build a world free from war and violence.
Thanks to the Gangjeong resistance, our friendship spawned many more pathbreaking peace initiatives, including the creation of Women Cross DMZ, which organized the 2015 women’s DMZ crossing, and the Korea Peace Now! transnational feminist campaign. On this historic anniversary of 5,000 days since the struggle began, we hope you can look back at the incredible impact you have made on so many people’s lives, peace movements, and our world.
From Lindis Percy, Co-Founder of the Campaign for the Accountability of American Bases UK
To say when and why I visited South Korea in July 2017 for 12 nights – The visit included 3 nights on Jeju Island and Gangjeong village. I co-founded the Campaign for the Accountability of American Bases in 1992.
I was the guest of the People’s Democracy Party (PDP). The invitation came three weeks after a very short and hastily organised visit to Harrogate, (where we live) by three members of a PDP Peace Delegation. They arrived late in the afternoon and stayed with us for one night. We visited NSA/NRO Menwith Hill, (below) a significant US intelligence gathering and surveillance base near Harrogate, North Yorkshire, UK.
We stayed on for the weekly Tuesday evening demonstration and went out for a meal afterwards. This demonstration was started in 2000 by the Campaign for the Accountability of American Bases (CAAB), and has continued uninterrupted (except for five Tuesdays,) ever since. The PDP left for London to continue their programme. A month later I received an invitation from the PDP to go to South Korea.
CAAB had supported this extraordinary and inspirational campaign for a number of years. During the three days we were on Jeju island I met many wonderful and courageous people. I learnt about the history of occupation by foreign forces. Every day I spoke at meetings, demonstrations and gave several press interviews.
1. A moment that stands out in my memory from the Gangjeong struggle
I was thrilled to meet Sung-Hee (last in Seoul in 2009) who organized a very interesting day on July 7th. We visited Gangjeong village and the Peace Centre where an illustrated history of the people’s resistance against the construction of the Jeju naval base hangs on panels suspended from the ceiling. It is a meeting place and a wonderful centre for peace. I met the amazing Father Mun and joined in the daily Mass. We took part in the daily demonstrations at the main gate to the now completed and vast Jeju naval base, a ROK construction for the US military.
2. A way that the Gangjeong struggle has influenced me
There are many ways that I have been inspired by the examples of so many people engaged with this struggle – never giving up. Often against so many odds and violent actions by the police. I am moved by the commitment they have given over many years and still they steadfastly oppose what has happened. I saw why this was. The destruction of ancient and precious Gureombi rock formation is terrible, irreplaceable and in its place – war fighting and conflict.
3. The 5000 days of the Gangjeong struggle have for Jeju / Korean / international society? Why?
The Gangjeong struggle is a strong lesson for us all. For we are stewards of this planet and must be vigilant as to the dangers from fighting forces who are determined to destroy so much, so as to build more and more systems and structures for war – regardless what’s in their way. We must work to leave the world in a better state and to hand on to the next generation.
For too many words – apologies. Thank you for your tireless work – greeting, solidarity and love to you all.
From Bruce Gagnon, Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space
2019 Jeju Grand March for Life and Peace(special pages with short essays and photos) / Jeju announced a massive new port plan/ For the right to self-determination (update on the No 2nd airport struggle)/ EIA, an absolution for environmental destruction: An overall update on the Bijarim-ro/ The struggle against nuclear weapons/ Kings Bay Plowshares Update/ The struggle for Mauna Kea/ Solidarity of Maine and Gangjeong/ Peacebuilding training in Nanjing/ 2019 International Peace Camp in Jeju/ Navy aims to designate military protection zone/ Japan resumed commercial whaling amid ‘No Abe’ and Tokyo 2020 Olympics boycott campaigns/ Military mid-term plan reflects arms race/ SMA and Hormuz dispatch, for whom?/ GSOMIA etc.
20/10/18 – Pax Christi International has signed onto the 2018 International Solidarity Statement against the International Fleet Review in Jeju. The statement follows below. A number of Pax Christi members in the Asia-Pacific region have also signed onto the statement.
We, the undersigned organisations and individuals, strongly oppose the International Fleet Review which will be held at Jeju Naval Base in Gangjeong Village from 10 October. This is the biggest event by the Korean navy since Jeju naval base was constructed and around 50 vessels and 20 aircraft from 45 countries will gather in Jeju Naval Base. A marine inspection, an open house event on vessels and in the base, and a military industry exhibition are scheduled.
The international fleet review, gathering warships from around the world, will heighten the military tension in the region and create dark clouds of conflict in the midst of the growing desire to open a new era of peace and coexistence and end the war on the Korean peninsula and Northeast Asia.
Jeju Naval Base was constructed on top of state violence against the villagers, lies, and destruction of the natural environment. We all remember the coercive construction process and problems of the Jeju Naval Base. While supporting Jeju islanders’ desire to establish this beautiful island as the Island of Peace, we strongly oppose the International Fleet Review being held in Jeju Island.
Since the establishment of Jeju Naval Base, the militarization of Jeju Island has sped up. Warships from different countries including a U.S. nuclear submarine have already been frequently visiting the Jeju Naval Base. In addition to this, a U.S. nuclear aircraft carrier will also join the International Fleet Review. We are concerned that this International Fleet Review will widen the gate of the Jeju Naval Base to the Japanese and the U.S. warships. The U.S. Pacific commander already expressed his wish to station a Zumwalt Stealth Destroyer at the Jeju Naval Base. In addition to building the naval base, the Korean Navy reinforced the marine corps in Jeju and also expressed its plan to use the 2nd airport as its air base which the Government is forcibly working to construct in Seongsan, Jeju Island.
The militarization of Jeju Island will retrogress peace on the Korean Peninsula, and expedite militarization in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. The U.S. changed the Pacific Command into Indo-Pacific Command last May. This clearly shows its will to prioritize military hegemony in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific, instead of peaceful cooperation. The U.S. has not been hiding its plan to establish a NATO-like military alliance in the Indo-Pacific region. Many peace organisations are concerned that Jeju Island will become an outpost against China by the U.S. and its military allies.
Under this circumstances, the International Fleet Review will internationally establish the existence and military use of the Jeju Naval Base. This seriously jeopardizes the future vision of Jeju Island as ‘The Island of Peace’ declared by the South Korean government in 2005. It also damages environment of Beom Island which is designated as the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The two Koreas declared ‘a new era of peace’ and are walking towards the establishment of a peace system and denuclearization on the Korean peninsula. Korean people’s efforts to move on to peace and coexistence from the hostility of the past should be linked to efforts to make the Pacific peaceful. We support Jeju islanders’ desire to make a “genuine” Island of Peace and oppose the militarization of the Pacific. The International Fleet Review in Jeju Island must be stopped immediately.
No International Fleet Review in Jeju!
Shut down the Jeju Naval Base!
Stop the Militarization of Jeju! Stop the Militarization of the Ocean!
Let’s make Jeju Island the Island of Peace, Let’s make the Pacific the sea of Peace!
The endorsement was joined by 435 international supporters including many well-known activists, artists and scholars. We thank so much to all the international citizens who joined our endorsement. We also remember that there are much more international friends who support our struggle. We so thank them and express our solidarity, also. Please see the related article, here.
2018 International Solidarity Statement against the International Fleet Review in Jeju
No International Fleet Review in Jeju
Let’s make Jeju Island the Island of Peace
Let’s make the Pacific the Sea of Peace
10 October 2018
We, the undersigned organisations and individuals, strongly oppose the International Fleet Review which will be held at Jeju Naval Base in Gangjeong Village from 10 October. This is the biggest event by the Korean navy since Jeju naval base was constructed and around 50 vessels and 20 aircraft from 45 countries will gather in Jeju Naval Base. A marine inspection, an open house event on vessels and in the base, and a military industry exhibition are scheduled.
The international fleet review, gathering warships from around the world, will heighten the military tension in the region and create dark clouds of conflict in the midst of the growing desire to open a new era of peace and coexistence and end the war on the Korean peninsula and Northeast Asia.
Jeju Naval Base was constructed on top of state violence against the villagers, lies, and destruction of the natural environment. We all remember the coercive construction process and problems of the Jeju Naval Base. While supporting Jeju islanders’ desire to establish this beautiful island as the Island of Peace, we strongly oppose the International Fleet Review being held in Jeju Island.
Since the establishment of Jeju Naval Base, the militarization of Jeju Island has sped up. Warships from different countries including a U.S. nuclear submarine have already been frequently visiting the Jeju Naval Base. In addition to this, a U.S. nuclear aircraft carrier will also join the International Fleet Review. We are concerned that this International Fleet Review will widen the gate of the Jeju Naval Base to the Japanese and the U.S. warships. The U.S. Pacific commander already expressed his wish to station a Zumwalt Stealth Destroyer at the Jeju Naval Base. In addition to building the naval base, the Korean Navy reinforced the marine corps in Jeju and also expressed its plan to use the 2nd airport as its air base which the Government is forcibly working to construct in Seongsan, Jeju Island.
The militarization of Jeju Island will retrogress peace on the Korean Peninsula, and expedite militarization in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. The U.S. changed the Pacific Command into Indo-Pacific Command last May. This clearly shows its will to prioritize military hegemony in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific, instead of peaceful cooperation. The U.S. has not been hiding its plan to establish a NATO-like military alliance in the Indo-Pacific region. Many peace organisations are concerned that Jeju Island will become an outpost against China by the U.S. and its military allies.
Under this circumstances, the International Fleet Review will internationally establish the existence and military use of the Jeju Naval Base. This seriously jeopardizes the future vision of Jeju Island as ‘The Island of Peace’ declared by the South Korean government in 2005. It also damages environment of Beom Island which is designated as the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The two Koreas declared ‘a new era of peace’ and are walking towards the establishment of a peace system and denuclearization on the Korean peninsula. Korean people’s efforts to move on to peace and coexistence from the hostility of the past should be linked to efforts to make the Pacific peaceful. We support Jeju islanders’ desire to make a “genuine” Island of Peace and oppose the militarization of the Pacific. The International Fleet Review in Jeju Island must be stopped immediately.
No International Fleet Review in Jeju!
Shut down the Jeju Naval Base!
Stop the Militarization of Jeju! Stop the Militarization of the Ocean!
Let’s make Jeju Island the Island of Peace, Let’s make the Pacific the sea of Peace!
Aaron Tovish(Zona Libre), Adilur Rahman Khan(Odhikar), Adrian Partridge (Derby CND), Adrian Perry (Derby Labour Party), Ai Iwakawa , Aiichiroh Sasagawa, Ailsa Johnson, Akifumi Fujita(Peace Studies, TRANSCEND Japan), Aki KANEKO, Akiko Nishijima , Alain Ah Vee(LALIT), Alfred Robert Hogan(Writers Plus Newsroom), Alice Slater(World BEYOND War), Amy Echeverria(Missionary Society of St. Columban), Amy Harlib(Yoga For Peace, Justice, and Harmony With the Planet), Amy Levine, Andree Duguy(Women in Black London), Andrew Graham(Australian Anti-Bases campaign Coalition/Independent Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN)), Angela Burrows(Pax Christi NSW, Independent and Peaceful Australia Network), Angie Kim(The supporting committee for Korean prisoners of conscience), Angie Zelter(Trident Ploughshares, Reforest the Earth, UK), Ann E. Ruthsdottir(Peace Works), Ann Kobayashi(Japanese Against Nuclear UK), Anne Dodd(Abingdon Peace Group), Anne Elvey(Plumwood Mountain: An Australian Journal of Ecopoetry and Ecopoetics), Anne Lanyon(Pax Christi NSW), Anne Lindsay(CND), Anne Macarthur(SCOTTISH CND), Anne Milne(Edinburgh CND), Annette Brownlie(Independent and Peaceful Australia Network), Annette Sheppard(Nil), Antonio Carlos Silva Rosa(TRANSCEND Media Service), Anuradha Chenoy(AEPF), Ara Lee(Puri arts), Ariel Ky(Nada), Asako Kageyama (Morinoeigasha), Asfinawati(Indonesia Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI)), ASM Badrul Alam (Bangladesh Krishok Federation), Atsushi Fujioka(Ritsumeikan University), Aya Kasai(Miyazaki International College), Barry Huges(CND London), Bedjo Untung(YPKP 65 Indonesian Institute for the Study of 1965/66 Massacre), Benjamin Monnet, Bi-Xiu Lin(Environmental Rights Foundation), Bobby Montemayor(Metro Subic Network), Brenda Paik Sunoo, Brian Noyes Pulling, Brian Quail(Catholic worker), Brian Smiddy(St Mary’s Social Justice Group), Brigidine Sisters Kildara Centre, Bruce Gagnon(Global Network Against Weapons & Nuclear Power in Space), Buddy Bell(Voices for Creative Nonviolence), Camilla Saunders(Knighton Action for Peace and Justice), Candace Fujikane(University of Hawaiʻi English Department), Carol Turner(London Region CND), Carolyn A Hadfield(World Can’t Wait-Hawai`i), Catherine Christie (Local/Global Advocacy Network), Catherine Lutz(Brown University), CedarBough Saeji(University of British Columbia), Charles Ryu(St. Paul’s United Methodist Church), Chieko Hotta(Hiyamikachi), Chikako Kobayashi, Chikashi Furukawa(East Asia Popular History Exchange, Taiwan), Christina Rusnov , Christine A. DeTroy(Greater Brunswick PeaceWorks), Christine Ahn(Women Cross DMZ), Christopher Butler(Shipley CND), Christopher Coppock(Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, Citizen of the World), Christopher Gwyntopher(Trident Ploughshares), Cindy Lin(East Asia popular history exchange, Taiwan), Citizens Opposing Active Sonar Threats, Claude Mostowik msc(Pax Christi Australia, Missionaries of the Sacred Heart Justice and Peace Centre), Colonel Ann Wright(U.S. Army (Retired) & Veterans for Peace), Come Ledesert(Filmmaker), Corazon Valdez Fabros(International Peace Bureau), Councillor Maya Evans(Voices for Creative Non Violence UK), Cynthia Franklin(University of Hawaii), Daisuke Sato(No Nukes Asia Forum Japan), Daisy(Women’s peace group), Dan Troy(Columbans), Daniell O’Keeffe(Missionary Society of St Columban), Danilo Alejandro(United Peoples Association of Zambales), Dave Webb(Global Network & CND), David French(Moray Peace Builders), David Hartsough(PEACEWORKERS), David Hoadley(Southampton CND), David Mackenzie(Trident Ploughshares), David Ray(Trident Ploushares), David Vine(American University), Debbie Kim(Gangjeong UK), Diane lunzer(CND), Dud Hendrick(Deer Isle, Maine), Eamon Adams(Missionary Society of St Columban), Earl Arnold(Presbyterian Peace Network for Korea), ECOTERRA Intl., Edward Egan(Pax Christi), Eileen Cook(Edinburgh CND), Elizabeth Knight (TPAG and TP), Elizabeth Rees(World Can’t Wait-Hawai`i), Ella Weng, Ellen E Barfield(Veterans For Peace, War Resisters League), Ellen Smiddy(St Mary’s Social Justice Group), Ellen Teague(Columban Missionaries, Britain), Ema Tagicakibau(Pacific Action Network for Peace and Disarmament (PANPAD), Pacific Foundation for the Advancement of Women (PACFAW)), Eric Herter(Maine Chapter 001, Veterans for Peace), Eun-Jeung Lee(Freie Universitaet Berlin), European Sanctuary of World Peace Prayer Society, Felix Mushobozi(Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission USG, UISG), Ferdinand Liefert(German East Asia Mission), Filo Hirota(Catholic Council for Justice and Peace of Japan), fPcN – friends of Peoples close to Nature, Francis McDonagh (St Mellitus Church), Frank Cordaro(Des Moines Catholic Worker), Fumihide Kanaya, Gail Okuma(Chuo University, Policy Studies Faculty), Gail Whang, Gar Smith(Environmentalists Against War), Gayle Wells, Geoff Holland(World Peace Now ॐ), Geoffrey Shaw, George Katsiaficas (Eros Effect Foundation), Gerry Condon(Veterans For Peace), Gerry Lee(Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns), Gill Boehringer(International Assn. of People’s Lawyers), Gisela Köllner, Greet Vanaerschot(Pax Christi International), Greg Reynolds(Inclusive Catholics Vic Inc.), Gwyn Kirk(Women for Genuine Security), H Mitchell(Bedford CND), Haeng Woo Lee(National Association of Korean-Americans), Hannah Kemp-Welch(CND), Harry Kerr(Pax Christi Australia), Heather Weedon(Franciscan Missionaries of Mary), Helen Marron(Pax Christi), Helen van den Berg(Pax Christi), Helena Paul, Hemantha Withanage(Centre for Environmental Justice), Henri Tiphagne(People’s Watch), Herbert J. Hoffman(VFP, Albuquerque, NM), Hideko Otake, Hiromi Ootsuki (Theater people who chose no war), Hiroshi Inaba(Okinawa Peace Support), Hiroshi Sato, Hiroshi Yamaguchi(group ZAZA in Osaka), Huang Yu Hsiang(University of the Ryukyus), Hugo Wilson, Hui Hwa Nam(Voices), Hye-Jung Park(Philadelphia Committee for Peace and Justice in Asia), Hyejin Yoon(University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), Hyeyoung Lee(PCUSA), Ian Gasse(Dumfries TUC), Ian P. Hamilton(Methodist Church in Britain & Ireland), Ichiro Sumida(Henoko Blue), Ikuko Oshiro(Henoko Blue), Iljung Kim(University of British Columbia), Iwakawa(Labornet), Jack Cohen-Joppa(Nuclear Resister), Jacquelyn Wells(Women Cross DMZ), James George Cullen (Columban Fathers), James Trewby(Columbans UK), Jammu Narayana Rao(Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space), Jan Plummer(Trident Ploughshares), Jane Kaisen(Artist), Janet Fenton(Words & Actions Scotland, Scottish CND, Scottish WILPF, ICAN in Scotland), Jason Rawn(National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee), Jay Hauben(Amateur Computerist), Jean Oliver(Trident Ploughshares), Jean Sanborn(Women’s International League for Peace), Jenny Clegg(Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, UK), Jenny Lee(Women Together, Inc.), Jesook Song(University of Toronto), Jess Santiago(Poet), Jill Gough(CND Cymru), Jo Bownas(St Mellitus Church), Jo Fry(Moray Peace Builders), Jo Siedlecka (Independent Catholic News), Joan West(East Lancashire CND), Joanna Nowicki(Moray Peace Builders and World beyond War), Joanne K Hardy(Greater Brunswick PeaceWorks), John B. Din(Columban Missionaries – Philippines), John Feffer(Foreign Policy In Focus), John Jackson(Asia Culture Center), John Lynes(Hastings against war), John Morris(Veterans for Peace), John Pilger(Journalist, writer, documentary filmmaker), John Wells(KPCW), Jos van den Berg(Pax Christi), Joseph Anthony Camilleri(Pax Christi), Joseph Essertier(World BEYOND War), Joseph Gerson(Campaign for Peace Disarmament, Common Security), Joy Enomoto(Womenʻs Voices Women Speak), Jude Genovia (Columban Missionaries), Judith Emerson(Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom), Judith Joy(Grassington & District Peace Group), Julia Larden(Hall Green CND), Julianna Bethlen (Women in Black London), Julie Enslow(Peace Action of Wisconsin), Julie Maguire(St Cuthberts Crook Justice & Peace Group), Julie Marlow(Australian Anti-Bases Campaign Coalition), Julie Ward MEP(Labour Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), Kagari Ando, Kaia Curry(The Frontiers), Kamal Mitra Chenoy(JNU), Karissa Chua(Center for Peace Education – Miriam College), Kate Holcombe(Trident Ploughshares), Kathryn Edwards(Women in Black, London), Kathy Kelly(Voices for Creative Nonviolence), Katsuko Kai, Katsumi Hamaguchi(Kyoto), Kayoko Teshigawara (Meijigakuin university), Kazuhiro Ohmura(People’s soridarity of Okinawa Korea), Kazuhiro Shibata(NARAYUN-OKINAWA), Kazuyo Kozaki, Keiron Sparrowhawk(Justice and Peace, St Mellitus, UK), Ken Butigan(Pace e Bene), Kenneth Mayers(Veterans For Peace), Kenneth Wardrop(Stirling CND), Kerry Long(University of Hawaii at Manoa), Ketei Matsui(Global Campaign for Peace Education, Japan), Kevin Martin(Peace Action), Kikuko Nakahara, Kil Sang Yoon(Korean American National Coordinating Council, Inc.), Kimiko Matsuda, Kirity Roy (MASUM), Kit Fry(Moray Peace Builders), Kitamura Megumi (Japanese Army Comfort Women Problem Solving Hiroshima Network), Kiwamu Ogawa, Kiyoko Schneiss(Deutsche Ostasienmission), Koohan Paik(International Forum on Globalization), Kozue Akibayashi(Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom), Kristin Douglas, Kristina Wolff(Veterans for Peace), Kunio Asato(Henoko Blue), Kyle Kajihiro(Hawaiʻi Peace and Justice), Kyoko Okumoto(Northeast Asia Regional Peacebuilding Institute), Kyu Hyun Kim(Koreanfilm.org), Laam Hae(York University), Larry Kerschner(VFP Rachel Corrie Chapter 109), Laura Wilder(Pax Christi Dallas), Lenette Toledo(Columban Missionaries), Leonard Eiger(Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action), Lina Koleilat(The Australian National University), Linda Hugl(Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), Lindis Percy(Co-Founder of the Campaign for the Accountability of American Bases (CAAB)), Lisa Savage(Maine Natural Guard), Liu ChiaSheng(Peace for the Sea), Loreta Castro(Center for Peace Education), Louise Legun(Veterans For Peace), Luis Frailes Álvaro (Grupo de Estudios Literarios y Decoloniales Asia-Pacífico en Madrid), Lynn Jamieson(Scottish branch of Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and Scottish Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), Maggie Galley(Pax Christi Australia NSW Branch), Maggie Holdsworth(Concerned human), Malcolm Bruce(Edinburgh CND), Manuel Pardo(Frente Antiimperialista Internacionalista), Margaret Tonkin(Pax Christi Victoria. Australia), Margery Toller(Christian CND, Anglican Pacifist Fellowship), Marie Dennis(Pax Christi International), Mark Kaplan(Grey Matter Media), Martha Duenas Baum(Famoksaiyian – Guahan), Martha Hennessy(Catholic Worker), Martin Newell cp(Passionists UK), Mary Beth Sullivan(Global Network), Mary Branson(St Marys Catholic Church), Masae Yuasa(Hiroshima City University), Masakazu Yasui (Japan Council against Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs (Gensuikyo)), Masako Suzuki(Northern dugong research team), Masako Tanaka(Sophia University), Masato Minamino(Okinawa-Korea People Solidarity), Masato Shinozaki, Mayumi Seita, Merci Angeles(Peace Women Partners), Meri Joyce(Peace Boat), Mesopotamia Ecology Movement, Michael Bloom(Abingdon Peace Group), Michael O’Sullivan(Columbans Ireland), Michael Orgel(Medact Scotland), Mike Hastie(Veterans For Peace), Miliann Kang, Mina Watanabe(Women’s Active Museum on War and Peace (WAM)), Minah Seo(Columban Lay Missionary), Minoru Haseagwa(Okinawa Peace Support), Minoru Suda(Article) Messege Project), Mio Kokubun(Okinawa Baptist convention), Mio Nogawa(Alternative People’s Linkage in Asia), Misako Ichimura(Nora), Morag Carmichael(Trident Ploughshares), Mort Stamm, Motoki Tomoyose, Munemitsu Shiota, Munenori Ohwan 大湾 宗則(米軍Xバンドレーダー基地反対京都/近畿連絡会, No Base! 沖縄とつながる京都の会), Nan Kim(Alliance of Scholars Concerned about Korea, Women Cross DMZ), Nancy E. Galland(Natural Resource Defense Council USA), Natasha Mayers(Union of Maine Visual Artists), Nick Molnar(Moray Peace Builders), Nigel Young(Local Peace Group), Noam Chomsky(Linguist/Social Critic), Noboru Takeno, Noriko Kato(Stop!Henoko-umetate-campaign), Noriko Kyogoku(Base stop from bus stop(KANAGAWA)), Noriko Nakamatsu(Henoko Blue), Nuki Ashi, Olga Fedorenko(Seoul National University), Olivia Agate(Trident Ploughshares/CND), Osamu M akishi(Diving Team Rainbow), Pat Cunningham (Columban Justice and Peace), Pat Gaffney(Pax Christi British Section), Pat Sanchez(Greater Manchester CND), Patricia Antonyshyn, Patrick McInerney(Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations), Paul Krumm(Salina Resistance), Paul Schneiss(Deutsche Ostasienmission), Penny Morris(Veterans For Peace, MAINE), Penny Walker(Leicester Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), Peter Hughes(Society of St. Columban), Peter Lanyon(Trident Ploughshares, Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament), Peter O’Neill(Columban Mission Centre Peace, Ecology and Justice Office), Peter S. Morgan, Jr.(Veterans For Peace, USA Coast Guard), Peter Vanhoutte, Pierre Rousset(Europe solidaire sans frontières (ESSF)), Prescilla D. Tulipat(UP Office of Anti-Sexual Harassment), Puaʻena N. Ahn, Rachael M Joo(Middlebury College), Rachel Western, Rafendi Djamin(Human Rights Working Group – Indonesia), Ramsay Liem(Boston College), Rebecca Johnson(Women in Black), Rebecca Woodsford(Gareloch Hortis), Regina Hagen(Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space), Reiner Braun(International Peace Bureau), Renate Zauner (Trident Ploughshares), Rie Nakaya(Vancouver Save Article 9), Rikiya Miwa(AWC), Rita Camilleri(Pax Christi Victoria), Robert B. Shetterly(Americans Who tell the Truth), Robert L. Dale(Veterans for Peace), Robert Morris(Veterans For Peace, MAINE), Robin Spencer(Maine Veterans for Peace), Roger Leisner(Radio Free Maine), Rolly Bea, Romi Elnagar(Green Party of the US (unofficial) Issues and Discussion Group), Romina Beitseen(Campaign for International Co-operation and Disarmament (CICD)), Rosalie Tyler Paul (Greater Bunswick Peaceworks), Rose Berger(Sojourners), Rosemary Theobalds(Gareloch Hortis), Rowena leder(Grassington & District Peace Group North Yorkshire England), Ruchama Marton, Russell Wray(Citizens Opposing Active Sonar Threats), Ryoko Okazaki (Ritsumeikan University), S. Unzu Lee(Presbyterian Peace Network for Korea), Saito Takako(Saitma Teachers’ Union), Sarah Lasenby(Oxford Quakers), Sarah Swift(Menwith Hill Accountability Campaign), Sasha Davis(Keene State College), Satoko Oka Norimatsu(Peace Philosophy Centre), Sean Martin(Society of Saint Columban), Seth Martin(The Menders), Seung Hee Jeon(Boston College), Shigeo Kobayashi(Japanese Against Nuclear UK), Shigeru Takagi (NPO Vountary Night School in Matsudo city), Shizuko Nagashima , Sho Nagamine, Shona Mcalpine(Scottish CND), Simone Chun(Women Cross DMZ), Sisto dos Santos(The HAK Association), Soomin Seo(Temple University), Sriprakash Mayasandra(Mennonite Central Committee), Stephen Hull, Stuart Parkinson(Scientists for Global Responsibility), Subodh Raj Pyakurel(INSEC), Sue Park-Hur(Reconciliasian), Sumi Hasegawa(Article 9 Canada), Sumie Mizusawa(Henoko blue), Sungeun Kim(Filmmaker), Susan Bennet(Gareloch Horticulturalists peace action group), Suzanne Ewing(Pax Chrisit USA), Suzanne Hedrick(Global works, Women’s International League for Peace), Suzuyo Takazato(Okinawa Women Act Against Military Violence), Suzy Kim, Swedish Peace Council, Takao Takahara(Peace Depot), Takashi Tanino(Agenda Project), Takehiko Ito(Wako University), Tamayo Yamshiro(Henoko blue), Tarak Kauff(Veterans For Peace), Taworu Yamasaki(Henoko Blue), Terri Kekoolani (Hawaii Peace and Justice), Terry Andrews, Terry Byrne(Pax Christi, Victoria, Australia), Theresa Wolfwood(Centre Foundation Barnard-Boecker), Thomas Harty(Veterans for Peace), Tim Shorrock(The Nation), Timothy Zhu(Democratic Socialists of Honolulu), Tom D’Arcy(D’Arcy), Tom Rainey-Smith, Tomas Remiarz(GreenLand Services), Tomiko Suzuki, Tommy Griffin(Veterans For Peace Chapter 170), Toshio Takahashi 高橋 年男 (沖縄―韓国民衆連帯), Tsuneo Takeuchi , Tyson Smith Berry Jr(4Kids International), Ulla Klötzer(Women Against Nuclear Power – Finland), Universal Peace&Social Development Society , Valerie Flessati(Pax Christi), Vicki Beitseen(CICD), Vincent Moinard, Viv Ring (Derby CND), Vladimir Tikhonov (박노자)(Oslo University), Wamuyu (Pax Christi international), Will Griffin(The Peace Report), William H. Slavick(Pax Christi Maine), Will Yang, World BEYOND War, Wu Ju Mei, Yeonhee Kim (University of Hawai’i Manoa), Yoko(Henoko blue), Yoko Iemoto(Article 9 Canada), Yoshida Ai 吉田藍 , Yoshio Nakamura(AWC-Japan), Yosi (Jo) McIntire(The Friendship Association), Youjeong Oh(The University of Texas at Austin), Youki Kato, Young Sun Han, Yuji Murakami, Yukiko Okamoto(not organisation), Yumiko Makihara, 上間芳子(沖縄平和市民連絡会), 仲村渠 政彦(わが沖縄を考えるひとりの会), 土井陽子, 富樫純子, 小西誠(社会批評社), 山田星河, 廣瀬 康代(あぷら), 清水早子（しみずはやこ）(宮古島ピースアクション実行委員会), 瀧川 順朗(AWC), 陳姿吟 이상 총 435명
Photo by Oum Mun-hee/ In solidarity with the people, in Maine, against the Christening of Zumwalt Destroyer on June 18, 2016. To be c-incident, a big international missionary group of 40-50 people visited the village during the human chain around noon. We briefly told them what the photo is for and they were willing to join us ! On the day, there were two other same world missionary groups visiting the village in such a big size and different time. Adding to June 17 banner, we also had a sign in English and Korean which is from the Maine activists’ statement on civil disobedience. It reads: “NO ZUMWALT: We stand in solidarity with people around the world who are protesting at bases where the US will port these warships. Not only would these destroyers kill innocent people but their sonar also severely impacts ocean life [..].”
Hello from Gangjeong village, Jeju Island, South Korea. Despite our struggle against base construction for nearly nine years, there was a ceremony for the completion of the Jeju navy base construction this February. However, despite the navy base, we will do our best to maintain village community. And we cannot get along with the navy as long as it continues to foster conflicts.
We heard that there is a ceremony for the christening of a recently built Zumwalt destroyer in the Bath Iron Works (BIW), Maine, United States on June 18 and that this destroyer is the most threatening naval ship in history, with a production cost of more than 4 billion USD per ship. According to the Korean media, the U.S. Secretary of Defense said that all three Zumwalt-class destroyers, once being made, would be deployed in the East Asia Sea by the end of this year. It is very worrisome as it would intensify tension in Northeast Asia and threaten peace. We heard that you would carry out protest to the christening ceremony on the Zumwalt destroyer and some of you plan non-violent civil disobedience on June 18.
Many of you have visited Gangjeong and have made solidarity with us with deep concern for the struggle in opposition to the Jeju navy base project. Thanks to you, we came to know that our fight is not isolated but connected to all the peace movements in the world. Therefore we send deep gratitude, friendship, and solidarity to you all who are to magnificently expressing faith on peace in protest to the christening of the Zumwalt destroyer. We also resolve that we will endeavor more fully to keep our struggle.
Despite the navy and government manipulation 9 years ago, more than 94% among more than 70% of the electorate of the village strongly opposed the Jeju naval base construction. However, the government ignored villagers’ opinion and enforced base construction destroying democracy, environment and human rights. Further, the government and navy filed a wrongful lawsuit demanding around 3 million USD against the people of Gangjeong and are preparing to evict our community protest site, at the entrance to Gureombi Rock, which is now covered by concrete. The Jeju navy base was built on the destruction of democracy and threatens the peace of northeast Asia. That is why we continuously oppose to it and will do so in the future, too.
The Gangjeong sea with UNESCO-designation and the world’s largest soft coral habitat, a place where the 100 remaining Jeju Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins often came, has changed into a site infested with aegis destroyers and submarines. It is currently only used by military vessels of the South Korean navy. However given that Lisa Franchetti, the ex-commander of US naval forces of South Korea mentioned last August that the US wants to ‘send its ships’ to the ports of South Korea, including the Jeju navy base, it is very worrisome to imagine that the Zumwalt destroyer, the so called most threatening military vessel, might enter the Jeju naval port.
We think peace can be made through peace not through war. Even though the base was completed and oppression on the opponents to the Jeju navy base has been heavy, we will not stop our efforts to oppose militarism and make Gangjeong a ground for life and peace, on behalf of future generations and the living creatures in the sea.
We thank for your noble dedication and solidarity.
In peace,
The Anti-navy base committee of Gangjeong Village, Jeju Island, Korea
Photo by Pang Eunmi on June 17/ Gangjeong people in solidarity with the peace activists in Maine, USA for the June 18 protest against christening of the Zumwalt destroyer, BIW
Photo by Pang Eunmi on June 17/ same as above. In front of the villagers’s tent ‘village hall’ in protest to the navy lawsuit of 3 million USD against Gangjeong people
You’re trashing our home town and we’ll have nowhere to go! Photo: pagansweare.com
By Rose Bridger
June 10, 2016
Communities on Jeju, South Korea’s ‘island of peace’, are resisting a second airport that’s threatening the island’s farming, nature, culture and way of life, writes Rose Bridger. Linked mega-projects include an ‘Air City’ of shopping malls, hotels and offices, plus high-speed transport corridors, luxury resorts, casinos, theme parks and golf courses – all catering to wealthy outsiders.
Government and corporate powers are combining to impose aviation-dependent tourism megaprojects in Jeju. But islanders’ resistance gives hope of a more sustainable tourism, enabling visitors to enjoy the island without contributing to its destruction.
In November 2015, a sudden announcement of a new airport on the South Korea island of Jeju, came as a huge shock for residents of five villages – Onpyeong, Sinsan, Susan 1, Nansan and Goseon.
They were not involved, or even consulted, in the decision-making process about the airport, and are and worried that they face displacement from their lands, homes and villages and total disruption of their lives.
Most of the site, 70%, is a farming area, placing agricultural livelihoods and food production at risk. Little consideration had been given to the impact on rural communities that have thrived in the area for many generations.
Villagers immediately became distressed at the prospect of being forced to relocate, worried that they might receive a low level of compensation that would be insufficient to build a new life.
Situated 100 kilometres off the southern coast of South Korea, with a dramatic volcanic landscape featuring black sand beaches, waterfalls and lava caves, Jeju is already a major tourist attraction.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transportation stated that the airport, aUS$3.5 billion project to be built by 2025, would enable a dramatic increase in the number of visitors. Initially with one runway the new airport would be large enough to accommodate 25 million passengers annually. If the airport were to operate at full capacity this would constitute an enormous influx of tourists to an island with a population of just over 604,000.
Yet planners envisage that the airport could be expanded to accommodate an even higher number of passengers, with the possible addition of a second runway 20 or 30 years into the future.
The largest project in the island’s history
Governor of Jeju, Won Hee-ryong, said the new airport would be “the largest project in the island’s history.” And it would be the starting point for an even larger megaproject; the province has plans for an ‘Air City’ around the new airport, a complex of shopping malls, convention facilities, hotels and financial centres.
An ‘Air City’ is another name for an ‘aerotropolis’, urban development that is built around an airport and designed to be aviation dependent. Pursued by governments and corporations worldwide, many aerotropolis projects are meeting with resistance from communities facing displacement and destruction of farmland and ecosystems, including in Taipei (Taiwan), Bhogapuram (Andhra Pradesh, India), Kulon Progo (Indonesia), Kilimajaro (Tanzania) and Istanbul.
A second Jeju airport would jeopardise the pristine natural environment that is key to the island’s distinctiveness as a tourist destination. The tranquillity of Sunrise Peak, a 182 metre high cone rising from the sea with a large, green crater on the island’s eastern edge that is UNESCO protected and a particularly iconic visitor attraction, would be ruined if aircraft fly over it.
The area earmarked for the airport has unique ecological and geological features, including 18 subterranean lava tunnels. Honinji Pond, one of the most sacred historical sites, where, according to legend, farming began on the island, is close to the proposed site.
In contrast, various mega tourism projects would be supported by construction of a second airport, most notably Jungmun Tourist Complex and Jeju Myths and History Theme Park. Jungmun Tourist Complex, transformed a small fishing village into one of South Korea’s biggest resorts with upmarket hotels, coachloads of daytrippers, watersports, yachts, shopping, and an 18-hole golf course.
Upon completion Jeju Myths and History Theme Park will be one of South Korea’s largest integrated resorts. Originally conceived as a celebration of Jeju heritage, it was approved in spite of considerable local opposition because the project plans morphed into theme parks based on other ancient cultures such as Persia and the Inca Empire.
There was also disquiet over plans for an underground casino, pursued with a lack of transparency, and concern that little of the profits will reach the community.
Resistance against the new airport
From a provincial government announcement it appeared that a second Jeju airport had already been granted the go-ahead. Banners proclaiming ‘Second Airport Plans Confirmed‘ were displaced in Jeju City. But representatives of communities opposing the airport insisted that the project was not finalised; it had yet to receive the required validation from the Ministry of Strategy and Finance and the National Assembly.
By late December banners opposing the airport extended 20 kilometres along roads leading to the five affected villages. Hundreds of people, young, old and students, participated in a series of demonstrations against the airport. Protests drew on shamanic traditions, channelling a multitude of spiritual energies including the three founding fathers of the island and Yougdeung, Goddess of the wind and sea.
Resistance was pitted against a considerable weight of pro-airport propaganda. Prominent advertisements extended beyond the affected villages and were highly visible in Jeju City. The media presented reaction to the airport plan as a split of opinion, but the vast majority of locals, who stand to suffer the worst of the negative impacts, were opposed to it.
Unity in resistance against the new airport was still evident in the affected villages in January. Red and yellow protest flags emblazoned with slogans such as “Gieonara!” (Get out!) and “Second Airport Out! Oppose! Stop!” adorned buildings and cars. Protesters challenged the flouting of democratic process.
They blocked the entrance to a briefing meeting, demanding a full public debate and that the full study upon which the site for the airport was selected be made public. Campaign leaders spoke of their concern that the destruction caused by the airport would be compounded by urban sprawl from the ‘Air City’ and vowed to continue their fight for the future of their communities.
Island of peace resists naval base
Jeju islanders have form in sustaining long-term resistance against destructive megaprojects. Construction of an enormous naval base, with space for 24 warships, at the tiny village of Gangjeong on the southern coast of the island. It incorporates infrastructure for mass tourism: a port with space for the largest luxury cruise ships. Due to open in 2017 it is expected to handle 1 million cruise passengers by 2018.
The naval base has met with a nine-year non-violent struggle. Construction went ahead even though the result of a referendum was a resounding ‘no’; 94% of the village population of 1,900 people voted against it.
Rejection of the naval base plan was inevitable. Jeju is widely known as the ‘island of peace’, a culture with deep roots originating in response to the 1948 massacre of between 30,000 and 80,000 people, men, women and children. They were killed by Jeju authorities, at that time under the command of occupying US forces. Brutal repression was triggered by an uprising of locals opposing north-south division of Korea. Bodies were buried in mass graves across the island.
The movement against the naval base opposes militarisation of the island and South Korea, and planned use of the facility by the US military to support its strategic interests in the region. Jeju Naval Base forms part of an arc of US naval and military bases encircling China, aiming to counter the emerging superpower’s military build-up.
Unique marine ecosystems are being destroyed. The sea of Gangjeong is a key habitat for the few remaining Bottlenose dolphins living around Jeju island and the world’s largest soft coral forest began dying after construction commenced in 2011. Marine food sources and fishing livelihoods are being destroyed.
As explosives were laid at the site, to blow up rocks and the sea bed in preparation for construction, a large area of traditional diving grounds, where women have harvested abalone (marine snails) and other shellfish for many generations, was roped off.
Every day, except Sundays, protesters gather at the site entrance, physically blocking bulldozers and delivery of construction equipment such as cement mixers. They have successfully stalled the project many times. Villagers and activists responded to blocking land access to the construction site by taking to the seas, swimming and kayaking, to block cassions and dredging barges and monitor the environmental damage that is being inflicted.
Peaceful protest has been criminalised. About 600 people have been arrested, 400 of them charged with offences, but resistance continues in spite of imposition of fines and imprisonment of two activists. Some anticipate that, if construction of a second Jeju airport goes ahead, an even greater protest movement will rise up against it.
Mega resort complex halted by landowners
Jeju islanders have succeeded in halting construction of a luxury resort and residential complex. The site is in Yerae, Seogwipo City, on the southwest coast of the island. On 30 March 2015, the Supreme Court upheld a suit filed by a group of landowners, overturning land expropriation and requesting cancellation of construction.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the complex had been held on 7th March 2013 and the resort, the largest single foreign investment in the South Korean tourism industry, began to take shape, a major destination targeting northeast Asia. Plans showed that it would be geared towards visitors traveling by air, accessible for over 10 million people via a two hour flight.
The resort complex, called Jeju Airest City, is a joint venture between the Berjaya Group, a Malaysian hotel and resort conglomerate, and a public-private entity, the Jeju Free International City Development Center (JDC).
A promotional video shows the vision for the project, eulogising Jeju’s pristine environment, then proceeding to illustrate how large areas would be ruined with enormous buildings that supposedly evoke iconic natural features. The focal point, the ‘Casino Town’ complex, features a gigantic tower, the upper reaches vaguely resembling the contours of Sunrise Peak.
Obliteration of natural landscape would be further compounded by construction of the largest shopping mall in Jeju, hotels and condominiums, entertainment venues, corporate premises, a medical centre and a cosmetic surgery centre.
In an interview for an architecture website the Project Director of Berjaya Jeju Resort Limited makes it clear the site for was not just selected for desirability and strategic location, emphasizing support from the government, both national and local, as an important factor, along with various incentives for foreign investors.
Property developers and investors worldwide were so enamoured of Jeju Airest City, that, in 2012, it won a ‘Gold Award for Best Future Mega Project’ at the MIPIM Asia Awards and a 5 Star Award for Best Mixed-use Development at the International Property Awards.
Landowners’ suit upheld the law
The landowners’ suit against Jeju Airest City succeeded in upholding a law stipulating that recreation zone development must contribute to the welfare of residents. The Supreme Court ruled that the project aimed to generate profit for specific parties and that the developer had misled landowners over the use of the site.
Inclusion of luxury condominiums and a casino meant that the project failed to satisfy requirements for serving the public good, and should have been categorised as an ‘amusement park’ rather than a ‘residential type complex’. By not being explicit about its intentions for land usage Berjaya had avoided paying landowners their rightful premium.
Initially, Berjaya ignored the Supreme Court ruling, continuing construction until finally abandoning the project in July 2015. Jeju Airest City had been about 60% completed. Now it lies dormant, but the Jeju province moved to resurrect the project, attempting to push it through the legislature by amending the law to bring management of amusement parks under its auspices.
One of the landowners who refused the increased compensation offer, Kang Min-cheol, chair of Yerae Ecological Village, warned that the resort complex was indicative of a wider picture of inexorable pressure for intensive urban development modelled on Hong Kong and Singapore, urging people to seize the last chance to save Jeju from “reckless development”.
High-speed transport network, tourism hotspot
In February, following the second airport announcement, and in the face of continued resistance against it, another tourism-oriented megaproject plan was announced. A consortium supported by the provincial government called for a high-speed transportation network of rail and bus routes linking Jeju Island’s main commercial and tourism centres.
The scheme raises severe environmental concerns, including the impacts of construction activity and road building. Scope for consulting affected communities will be limited if, as envisaged, design plans are finalised within a matter of weeks.
The proposed route consists of four key nodes. Jeju City would be linked with upcoming tourist hotspots: Seogwipo, Jeju Myths and History Theme Park and the second airport. Amap of the proposed high-speed route indicates plans for an aerotropolis around the second airport site, where the only words written in English appear: ‘Air City’. The high-speed transportation network would support development and growth of the second airport and an aerotropolis surrounding it.
Aviation growth could also be served by a broader programme to make Jeju a luxury tourism hotspot. Announced by Governor Won Hee-ryong at the beginning of March, the focal point is a so-called ‘celebrity town’, provisionally named ‘Star Village’, in Seogwipo.
Won Hee-ryong indicated special backing for the aviation sector, pointing out the high fuel use of aircraft and stating that financial support from central government would be required. He also called on President Park Geun-hye to take steps that would serve to expedite development of a second Jeju airport: minimising the assessment review period and allocating $4.1 million for a development plan.
Government and corporate powers are combining to impose aviation-dependent tourism megaprojects in Jeju, posing grave threats to the environment and cultural heritage.
But islanders’ track record of resistance gives hope that a path for more sustainable tourism can be forged, enabling visitors to enjoy the island without unwittingly contributing to destruction of its treasures.
Since the navy filed a lawsuit on the rights to indemnity against 116 anti-base individuals and 5 groups including Gangjeong Village Association, some internationals were willing to send protest letters to the South Korean government. Following an April 24 appeal for protest to the South Korean navy lawsuit (See here), many more peace activists in the world have joined them. They thoughtfully sent us their solidarity messages to Gangjeong and/or forwarded us their protest letters to the South Korean government/ embassies. We are updating this site, as well as sharing the original and translated messages with Koreans. Thanks so much to the friends who took their precious time for Gangjeong. We appeal other friends in the world again to please help us by paying attention to the appeal for protest in the site. The name of senders are listed here by alphabet order of family name.
Christine and Gloria Steinem(May 30)/ Alliance of Scholars Concerned about Korea (ASCK) Steering Committee (on April 29)/ Antonio (on April 26)/ Catherine Christie (on April 25)/ Nick Deane (on April 26)/ Ulrich Duchrow (on April 29)/Catherine Fontanazza (on April 26)/ Bruce K. Gagnon (on April 5)/ Boyette Jurceles Jr. (on April 24)/ Natasha Mayers (on April 29)/ Rachael Berman Melville (on April 25)/ MIGRANTE International (on April 26)/ Missionary Society of St. Columban (on April 14)/ Nogawa Mio (on April 9)/ J.Narayana Rao (on April 28)/ Stuart Rees (on April 25)/ Arnie Saiki (on April 29)/ Veterans for Peace (on April 19)/ Russell Wray (on April 26-27)/ Angie Zelter (on April 24)
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Gloria Steinem and Christine Ahn ( on May 30)
Dear Gangjeong Villagers,
We send our greetings, respect and gratitude for the superhuman courage, peacefulness and tenacity you have shown in opposing the construction of a naval base on your home of Jeju Island.
Like millions of people around the world who fight against ecological damage and global warming, we support you who are on the frontline of resistance on behalf of us in every country who value the unique natural and cultural heritage of Jeju Island. Peace movements around the world join in thanking you for resisting a U.S. and South Korean naval installation that would militarize and endanger the safety and peacefulness of the people JeJu Island and our world.
We write now because we are shocked to learn that, not only have you been forced to endure violence and imprisonment for your actions in the service of peace and environmental justice, but the South Korean Navy is now demanding $2.9 million in damages from 117 Jeju island residents, activists and local citizens for exercising a human right to nonviolent protest and free speech.
This is in direct contradiction to Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees freedom of expression. We urge the South Korean Navy and government to immediately drop demands for this unlawful penalty that would negate an inalienable right to free speech and assembly, and send the anti-democratic message that all who oppose state actions are subject to ruinous fines.
Your actions have inspired all who value democracy, peace, and the environment. Your courage is contagious. We thank you, and we stand with you.
In love and in peace,
Gloria Steinem and Christine Ahn
Alliance of Scholars Concerned about Korea (ASCK) Steering Committee (on April 29)
“We stand wholeheartedly with the residents of Gangjeong Village. Since 2007, the people of Gangjeong have used every democratic measure and every non-violent means of protest in order to oppose the construction of the new naval base there and to challenge the re-militarization of Jeju Island. Gangjeong residents and peace advocates have a right to freedom of expression by protesting the base, which jeopardizes peace in the wider region by rendering Northeast Asia far more vulnerable to the risk of future military conflict.
“We now call upon the ROK Navy to withdraw its unfounded US$2.9-million lawsuit against the residents and peace advocates in Gangjeong Village. There must be an end to the anti-democratic procedural- and human-rights violations that led to the building of the new naval base on Jeju. The wrongful lawsuit against Gangjeong must be dropped immediately.”
Gangjeong Village, the small rural farming-fishing village on Jeju Island which has had a naval base built on its waterfront, destroying the marine environment, destroying the community spirit of the village. They are enduring a lot of stress, and all of a sudden the Navy has decided the village should pay for the days it took over to build the base. A suit has been brought against the village and its members, that mean all municipal assets would be forfeit. What a ridiculous move by the Navy! I ask all to call on the Korean government to withdraw this dangerous and foolish action. My association, IRCA, said I could write in their name to support this rural village of faithful and hardworking people. Below is the letter, challenging the government, I hope, to move on thi [..]
International Rural Churches Association
Voice of the Voiceless
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April 25, 2016
Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Jung Ho Sub
Ministry of National Defense, Minister Han Min Koo cyber@mnd.go.kr
President of Korea, Honorable Park Geun Hye webmaster@president.go.kr
Saenuri Party: Rep. Kim Moo Song
Democratic Party: Rep. Kim Jong In
Peoples Party: Rep. Ahn Cheol Soo
Governor, Jeju Province: Governor Won Hee Ryong jujmaster@jeju.go.kr
Honorable representatives of the Republic of Korea:
This letter is written to vehemently call for the dropping of the Republic of Korea Navy’s action against the Village of Gangjeong, Jeju Island, in its filing of a lawsuit seeking indemnity rights, or compensation for losses incurred during the construction of the Jeju Naval Base, officially opened in Gangjeong Village on Feb. 26, 2016. The Naval lawsuit demands 3 Million USD in its suit – a suit which will mean the destruction of this village, as it will have to liquidate all municipal assets to cover this, as well as the many citizens who will lose their property. This is an incredibly unjust and arrogant legal action.
I humbly point out that there were a number time when concerns were raised about this particular construction, not just from the Gangjeong villagers and other related groups. A number of times the Governor of Jeju of the time, Hon. Woo Keum-Min, issued suspension orders stopping construction for hearings on issues like environmental assessment and because the company had neglected to install, or had installed, faulty silt protectors that failed to protect the marine environment. And then there was Dec. 30, 2011, when the National Assembly, in its end of the year deliberations, cut 96% of the 2012 budget for the Naval Base construction. That was amazing, and many people thought the plans would be significantly changed at the time, one editorial suggesting perhaps the construction area would become a coast guard facility. As well a typhoon that struck the area early in the construction period which caused damage to the caissons being installed, necessitating that the job be done again.
I write on behalf of the International Rural Church Association which is concerned about this rural farming-fishing community in Korea that is struggling to survive in the face of great changes. Often rural communities bear the brunt of development of industrial-military or resource extraction facilities. IRCA stands on behalf of sustainable rural communities throughout the world, and in this regard, we strongly urge the government of Korea to reject this action of the Navy and its lawsuit against Gangjeong village.
Yours respectfully,
(Rev.) Catherine Christie,
Past chairperson, International Rural Churches Association
Seoul, ROK
Dear friends,
thank you for your amazing persistance in the struggle. As I am travelling in Brasil and not at home in Germany I can only send a very short message of solidarity to you. In October/November 2013 I took part in a solidarity mission of “Peace for Life” in resistance against the military base on Jeju Island. So I know the brutal oppression of the people in Gangjeong.
I wish you full success in your struggle against the lawsuit .
In solidarity
Ulrich Duchrow
Professor at Heidelberg University and Moderator of Kairos Europa
To: South Korean President Park Geun-Hye and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon
Dear President Park:
We have learned that your government, the South Korean Navy and Samsung Construction division are currently demanding damages from local groups and residents on Jeju Island for the alleged costs incurred due to the residents’ opposition to the Navy base construction: US $2.9 million. Your government has listed the Gangjeong village association, five groups and 117 residents and activists as the defendants.
The insistence that the construction delay was caused by residents is groundless. There are multiple complex reasons for the delay in the construction schedule.The principal reasons include disputes and controversy over the legality of the work, suspension orders issued over illegal construction work, losses and damage to structures caused by the natural environment, the strong wind and waves of Gangjeong’s coastline, Typhoon Bolaven, Typhoon Neoguri, etc. It is sophistry and exaggeration to claim that the residents blocking construction vehicles from entering and leaving the base for only a few minutes at a time caused the delay.
The responsibility lies solely with the state for threatening citizens’ right to a peaceful existence and causing their pain by enforcing this wrongful government policy. There is no one else as responsible for this as the government. The state rather than the residents bears the responsibility. Without mentioning a word about their own responsibility, it is the height of irresponsibility for the state to shift the blame for the delays in the construction onto individual citizens. The state that should be protecting the basic rights of its citizens is instead declaring war against them.
The biggest crime of all is that the ROK government and the Navy rejected the will of the Gangjeong villagers and have destroyed a 500-year old community. In addition the environmental ‘special preservation area’ is being destroyed as well – violating your own government’s environmental protection designation.
Our international membership stands with Gangjeong villagers and we demand that these outrageous and illegal charges be immediately dropped.
Dear President Park and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon :
Please drop the charges against the villagers of Gangjeong, Jeju Island, Korea.
The South Korean government, Navy and Samsung are demanding damages from these villagers for the alleged costs incurred due to their opposition to the Navy base construction. The Gangjeong village association, five groups and [116] residents and activists have been charged with paying $2.9 million (US dollars). The world has witnessed the brave non-violent resistance of the villagers to the destruction of their community and to the environmental ‘special preservation area’. The State (and typhoons) bear the responsibility for construction delays for rejecting the will of the Gangjeong villagers.
I’ve just emailed the letter to President Park via the US and UK embassies and posted via Facebook links to your recent post. I wanted to send along an image of a painting that I created in 2009 (part of a solo show I had at the Jeju Hallasumokwan). I believe this image has been used previously in your campaign as I sent it in previously (although years ago). It is based on a photograph I took at Gangeong Villiage in 2009. I took the shot through the foreground of an artpiece that was installed on the coast. A beautiful metal piece.
I hope it is still there? Do you know it? I wonder if you know the name of the artist who created this piece. I would love to credit them if I use the image in the future.
I lived on Jeju for a year in 2009 and felt deeply the concerns the residents of Gangeong and Jeju regarding the Naval Base construction. I have stayed connected through your newsletter and facebook posts. I always feel I wish I could be in Jeju now to help support this cause. I hope the small actions I have taken and hope to continue taking in the future will help Jeju reclaim it’s waters, it’s Gangeong Village, and it’s reputation of Peace Island. There is so much injustice in this world, so much war, destruction, and power struggle. Jeju is an amazing, inspiring place – they are proud of being ‘Peace Island’ and want to keep it that way. So do I!
Thank you for keeping those who can’t be present in Jeju up to date with what is happening and continuing to spread the word and get the international community behind the cause.
Migrante International, a global alliance of Filipino overseas organization, salutes the people of your village for its courage and staunch defense of your village and your rights.
We stand with you in solidarity against the militaristic machinations of the US government.
It is a travesty for any country based on the principles of democracy to sue citizens for engaging in their right to peaceful protest.
This lawsuit lacks courage and wisdom. Demanding damages from the people of Gangjeong Village reveals the pettiness of a supposed “advanced economy.” The fact that Samsung—the sixth largest corporation in the world whose revenue was (US) $305 billion in 2014—would seek damages from groups that only sought to protect their community; and that as President you would undermine the will of this community, only shows the world that your vision of Korea cares more about global corporate governance than people.
I love Korea and am honored to have stood beside Gangjeong Village protesters when I visited Jeju. As much as I lament the loss of Gureombi Rock and the destruction and insecurity that you have brought to the community, I equally object to your anti-democratic values.
Arnie Saiki
Coordinator
Moana Nui Action Alliance
Los Angeles, CA, USA
“Letter from Veterans For Peace (based on and adapted from Bruce Gagnon’s original letter) hard copies are being sent to the SK Pres. and all consulates in the US and the Embassy. “
Like so many others, I am appalled by the news of the lawsuit that you are all facing now. I am appalled, but not surprised, because the ROK government and Navy, and the Samsung Corporation have already made it very, very clear how little they care for democracy, human rights, and the right of humans and non-humans to a healthy, living environment. Still, this latest assault upon you good people leaves me feeling very sad, …and angry!
I am so glad to have had a chance to spend some time (not enough!) with you in Gangjeong this past December as part of the Veterans For Peace delegation. It was an honor to be there with you. I miss you all and though I am not there with you now physically, I am there in my heart and in solidarity. I wish you all good energy to keep up the fight for what is good and beautiful …
Peace and Best Wishes,
Russell
Russell Wray
Citizens Opposing Active Sonar Threats
Hancock, Maine, United States
“Below is a copy of a letter that I sent to the ROK embassy in D.C. I also sent the same letter, but addressed to the Boston consulate. Also emailed both the embassy and Boston consulate . Have telephoned as well, many times….nobody will speak with me about it, no one will call me back.Very frustrating….”
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April 26, 2016
The Honorable Ahn Ho-Young
Ambassador of the Republic of Korea
Embassy of the Republic of Korea
2320 Massachusetts Ave, NW
Washington, D.C. 20008
Re: Fining those who oppose the naval base at Gangjeong Village
Dear Honorable Ambassador,
I am writing to you today on behalf of Citizens Opposing Active Sonar Threats (COAST) regarding the US $2.9 million fine being leveled at Gangjeong Village residents, activists, and organizations by the government of the Republic of Korea, its Navy, and Samsung. We believe this fine to be a gross injustice; one which is being directed at people who have already had to face the great injustice of having the Navy base in Gangjeong Village forced upon them against their will, resulting in the destruction of their village, their way of life, and their once-beautiful environment.
The people who opposed the construction of this base had, and continue to have, every right to do so, given the very plain fact that the South Korean Navy used deception and bribery in an attempt to make it appear as if the village supported the base construction. But we know that this “village approval”, with only 87 of Gangjeong’s 2,000 villagers present, was a total sham, with most of the villagers not even having heard of this meeting until after it took place.
Following that, the village held a referendum on the matter, with 94% of the eligible voters voting against the base. Clearly, the people of Gangjeong did not want or approve of the base! Their opposition to the base was, and still is, entirely justified.
Furthermore, it is clear that their were numerous factors involved in construction delays other than protests. These other factors account for a far greater portion of the delays than do the protests. Some of these other factors include the Navy’s very bad decision to cite the base at Gangjeong, given its susceptibility to extreme wind and waves.There were the typhoons Bolaven and Neoguri, and their resulting damage to the construction, as well as suspension orders that were made due to the illegality of the construction.
To place the blame for construction delays solely on the people and organizations opposing the base is beyond unreasonable.
Regarding the base at Gangjeong Village, the government of the Republic of Korea and its Navy have trashed the democratic process and inflicted great injustice, pain, and destruction upon its own people and environment. When the people of the world hear the real story of this, they will know that the notion that South Korea is a democracy that is committed to human and environmental rights is simply false on each count.
COAST strongly urges the South Korean government to drop the charges and fines against these people and organizations immediately, and to begin the conversion of the base from militaristic to peaceful, life-promoting purposes. Thank you for your consideration. We look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Russell Wray
President
Citizens Opposing Active Sonar Threats (COAST)
Hancock, ME, USA
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And a same email to the South Korean Consulate in Boston , with Bruce K. Gagnon’s April 9 letter being forwarded , too.
I am very distressed to hear that you are being targetted by the Government, Military and Corporations, for your lawful, peaceful, humanitarian resistance to war and destruction. Your protests are part of a world-wide movement for peace, real security and global citizenship. The navy’s lawsuit that so wrongfully tries to stop your resistance shows just how successful you have been and is part of their long history of denying civil rights and trying to destroy your struggle and resistance. Please know that you have friends all over the world that stand with you and care about you. I do hope that you can keep up the strength to go on resisting.
We are in a time of global stress when the forces of peace and justice are facing the forces of militarisation and corporate greed. It is a time of deep conflict and change and we all need to keep strong and hopeful and not lose heart.
I love and respect all your hard work for peace and think of you as colleagues and friends connected together in our joint struggles for a better world. As we, here in the UK, continue our struggle to resist the replacement of the UK’s nuclear weapons with our own civil resistance, we will remember and honour your struggle and do what we can to let people know about the outrageous US$2.9 million lawsuit currently threatening the village.
Love, peace and strength, Angie Zelter.
Angie Zelter, is the founder of Trident Ploughshares (Right Livelihood Award Laureate), Faslane 365, International Women’s Peace Service-Palestine and various other organisations. She is author of ‘Trident on Trial – the case for peoples’ disarmament’, ‘Faslane 365 – a year of anti-nuclear blockades’, ‘World in Chains’. She is active in organising civil resistance against nuclear weapons and the arms trade to uphold international law.
From Dec. 9 to 27, two Catholic workers from the United States Martha Hennessy and Toni Flynn visited the village. While both joining daily activities of 100 bows and mass, Martha Hennessy, grand daughter to Dorothy Day, felt the need of further direct action. Here is her statement read on Dec. 23 when she stopped a military vehicle in front of the base construction gate. (For a photo and statement with Korean translation, see here). Please also see Martha’s interviews as a granddaughter of Dorothy Day with two Catholic media of Catholic Times (here) and Catholic News Now and Here (1, 2)
Photo by Gangjeong village/ Martha Hennessy, Granddaughter to Dorothy Day and New York Catholic Worker carries out direct action on Dec. 22. The Korean letters read, “No need of task flotilla in the Island of Peace.’
However, their visit was also filled with meetings with people and nature here. Here are some of the essays written by the two.
“Advent on Jeju – Dec 12, 2015 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe” Martha
& Toni’s 1st report from Jeju Island
Photo by Gangjeong village
Photo by Gangjeong village
Day 4
Gangjeong Village, Jeju Island
The weather in Gangjeong Village is cold and windy with intermittent rain blowing over Jeju Island. In contrast the Catholic peace community is warm, welcoming and grateful to us for joining them throughout December. We are all deep into Advent.
Gureombi Rock- a sacred site- is demolished, the Naval Base is built, and the Peace Community has been defeated in their struggle to prevent the construction and opening of the base.
The once pristine southern area of the island is now heavily militarized. Yet this community of villagers and activists maintain a prayerful presence at the gate, day after day, as they have for several years. This is about witness. This is about faithfulness. Although not all who participate are Catholic, this is where theCatholic Church truly breaks open the Body of Christ. This is where the Eucharist is paired with the crucifixion of the world. And this is
where the belief of Redemption is embodied in the faith of the people.
Each morning we wake up and walk a short distance from St. Francis Peace Center to join others at the gate of the naval base. The police, dressed in bright yellow uniforms, are ever present. We begin the ritual of one hundred bows in the darkness, and finish with the
dawning of the day. The Korean chanting and prayers during the bows mingle with our own inner prayers for our ancestors, family, and community members.
The daily heart and soul of the peaceful resistance culminates at the 11:00 AM Mass across from the gate. During Mass we sit in plastic chairs with priests, villagers, and activists, blocking the entrance to the base. The action proceeds nonviolently throughout Mass in a choreographed ritual between police and peacemakers. At three different intervals, police warnings intermingle with the words of the Mass as we are lifted chair and all, and moved to the side. Each time we return to sit at the gate. The priest then walks across the street bringing us communion and as we receive it, the meaning of the body and blood of Christ comes alive within us. The priest and nuns then lead us in reciting the Rosary, the Hail Marys blending with the roar of concrete trucks rolling in and out of the base. The Mass and Rosary have become inseparable from the activity of the base and the peacemakers’ efforts in the face of militarization.
At the conclusion of events, we walk to the nearby community kitchen where we enjoy the company of Jesuit priests and brothers, Franciscan nuns, local activists, and internationals.
We are served delicious Korean food including kim chi, glass noodles, rice, seaweed, and seasonal greens. We are reminded of Dorothy Day’s emphasis on the goodness of sharing a meal in common. Our lunchtime at the kitchen also serves as a means of decompressing from the intensity of the ongoing daily resistance.
We are steeped in the joy of coming together with our South Korean brothers and sisters during this Advent season. In the midst of resistance love flows out. We are grateful to all who supported us in our efforts to come here and our prayers join with yours.
“4 Vignettes from Gangjeong Village” by Toni Flynn – Calif CW
Photo by Gangjeong village
There is a pattern to our days now. Martha goes every morning at 7 am for the Hundred Bows. The weather is more fierce and I have been struggling with a sinus infection and sore throat so I read the hundred prayers from my room. “While holding in my heart that truth gives freedom to life, makeup first bow.” And each meditation deepens with each bow. (see attached doc for English translation)
After Bows, breakfast of rice, steamed eggs, yogurt and tangerines with Fr. Mun and others. Every one fusses over me wanting to help me get well so I am provided with healing elixirs, teas and various concoctions along with medicine. Martha is full of energy! She participates in every event enthusiastically. I on the other hand pace myself and enjoy one-on- one conversations.
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The naval base is casting a huge shadow over this little village. Word is out that there will be more land used to construct housing for members of the military and their families. Some of the humble facilities set up by the peace activists will no doubt be torn down in the process, such as the community kitchen where all gather together after daily Mass to eat and converse.
Fr. Mun celebrated the 50th anniversary of his priesthood last night at the St. Francis Peace Center where he lives and where Martha and I are guests. So much food as we joined many of his friends to celebrate around a big round table. We dined on fish, snails (ok I passed on the snails), octopus (passed on that too!), seasoned rice, vegetables, and an array of other edible delights.
It was good to see the faithful women, Fr. Mun, the Jesuits and Diocesan priests find cause for celebration because they have all suffered and sacrificed so much over years of time in opposition to military presence.
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Mr. Oh lives in the village. He is, I believe, a Quaker. During every Mass at the entrance to the naval base, he performs a solitary funeral march, dressed in traditional pale yellow mourning clothes and a mourning hat that resembles a French baker’s hat. In silence, he slowly circles the area between the makeshift chapel on one side of the street and the entry to the base on the other side. Mr. Oh. He takes three steps, bows, places his hands on the ground, then his knees, then rises and repeats over and over again, around and around while Mass continues. His grief represents the grief of the community over the loss of their sacred rock, Gureombi; the loss of sea life; the loss of their peaceful existence. Mr. Oh’s beard is gray; his face is ancient, his eyes are piercing. One evening he sang songs and his voice was filled with sorrow, passion, strength. I would not be surprised if his songs were heard across the ocean.
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See attached photo: This is JeJu’s non-violent Joan of Arc. She is a faithful witness at the entrance to the naval base. Two weeks ago a cement mixer truck ran over her foot while she stood at the gate. She has been in the hospital ever since. We visited her there, kindness of Fr. Kim. Joan of Arc is a woman on fire with love of this Island and the villagers. She will soon return to the naval base gate to continue with prayerful yet persistent protest. God bless Joan of Arc and all the brave priests, nuns and activists! Martha and I are already transformed by joining with them during this Advent time.
Photo by Gangjeong village
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“Summary of JeJu’s struggle” by Toni Flynn
The future of Gangjeong Village looks grim as does the future of JeJu Island as a whole. On another side of the Island a second civilian airport will be built. Along with more environmental destruction there is suspicion that eventually this airport will include an Air Force presence. As for Gangjeong Village, activists believe that the newly opened naval base is turning an abstract danger into a definite one by offering practicality to the U.S. and thereby
posing a threat to China. Daily life of the villagers has forever changed. What once was a unified village of peace and pristine beauty is now a militarized area with some in the village approving and some opposing the naval base. There are two family operated convenience stores in the village on two sides of the same street. One shop approves of the naval base and the other supports the opposition to the base. Before the base, these shop owners good neighbors. Now they symbolize a split village. In time, the expansion of the base along with the influx of military people and their families will overwhelm and influence the village people, their schools, shops and their village culture. The base will house not only military staff but submarines, weaponries, and war ships. The peacemakers in Gangjeong ask “How do we avoid war by building and preparing for more war?” These activists say that the struggle in Gangjeong is not only important to the locals or to the larger Korean population, but it.is of significance to all peaceful movements and peace communities around the world. We must all persevere in imagining and implementing alternatives to state violence and wars. Here is a poem for the children of Gangjeong by the poet Shin Kyung- Rim: My dears, you must be so proud of your parents who are struggling to save your village. A
day must come when we will all remember the beauty of this long struggle.
“My visit with Fr Mun” by Toni Flynn
Photo by Gangjeong village
Martha prayed the Hundred Bows at the gate this morning (she does the Bows faithfully every day) and has gone to pick tangerines with the villagers. I stayed back at the Peace Center for a visit with Fr. Mun in his work shop. He is a remarkable man of many talents with a nature that is both passionate and peaceful. His workshop is his sanctuary. There he practices his accordion and smokes an occasional cigarette. Most of the time he carves wood, creating art that speaks of struggle and peace. At breakfast today, Fr. Mun told me and Martha “We have no guns. We resist militarism with open hands.” He added “I used to love walking around in Gangjeong Village viewing the.beauty. Now I hate walking around because of the sight of the naval base structures.” Fr. Mun, Martha and I agreed that the new St. Francis Center is a solid, tangible sign of hope in the midst of all the military buildings – it is four stories high and welcomes everyone. As I started to leave Fr. Moon’s work shop he gave me a gift – a dramatic
wood carving of the suffering Christ wearing a crown of thorns. Below the face of Christ are the words in Korean: Beginning now. Peace.
The destruction of Gureombi Rock is a challenge to the human
civilization and the creation of God” Bishop Peter Kang
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Photo by Gangjeong village
Photo by Gangjeong village/ Toni and Martha in the April 3rd Peace Park
“Bishop Peter Kang -The Catholic Voice for Peace” by Martha Hennessy
Peter Kang, appointed bishop of Cheju in 2002, speaks fluent English with a gentle British accent. He studied in Japan and Rome and is known for his wisdom and compassion to both the people of Cheju, and those of downtown Seoul where he served for 25 years. He considered it God’s recompense to come to this place of fresh air and natural beauty after the noisy, smoggy city. He became aware of the tragic side of the history of the island when he moved here. As a well-educated Korean he knew little of how the island was used by United States Cold War military interests following the end of the Japanese occupation from 1910 to 1945.
These circumstances led to the slaughter of at least 30% of Cheju’s population from 1948 through 1953. Eighty-four villages were permanently destroyed. Bishop Kang expressed sadness and remorse over this history, that his government had committed such crimes. The majority of Koreans know very little about what really happened. A governmental cover-up has persisted for decades.
In 2000 an investigative study was finally allowed and the full report was completed in 2003. Bishop Kang and others traveled to Washington D.C. in April of this year to present the report to Congress but were invited to meet only with two congressional secretaries. South Korean/U.S. government interests had informed the Congress and biased them against meeting in person with the small contingent. Bishop Kang and the others have not heard from the U.S. Congress regarding the documentation of the slaughter of Cheju islanders.
The people of Korea are under significant pressure to not question the government and military in the interest of national security. Any dissenting voice is painted as “communist” and the military defense has free reign, with U.S. backing. This collaboration with the U.S. is considered essential to the existence of South Korea even as the threats of North Korea are now known to be inaccurate. An attempt was made by the South Korean president in 2002 to regain the right to direct military decisions during a time of war back into the hands of the Korean military. The current president, Park Geun-hye rolled back this effort and the U.S. continues to hold the highest level of control of any military decisions if war is declared.
Bishop Kang has expressed opposition to the building of the naval base on Cheju against the will of the people. It is imposing yet another layer of trauma on the people following the history of the massacres before and during the Korean War. He recently made five points during a homily given for the opening of St. Francis Peace Center in Gangjeong in September.
“Firstly, war is disaster. It cannot be a solution between nations. It is because such thing did not happen in the past and would not happen in the future, either.”
“Secondly, when a state power takes armed force, it can be justified and get citizens’ sympathy only by strict conditions. The mobilization of state power against the struggle in opposition to the Gangjeong naval base can never be of self-defense.”
“Thirdly, modern arms are weapons of massive mankind-killing. The increment of arms cannot be connected to peace.”
“Fourthly, we are dumping tremendous budgets into arms production. What if it is used for the nation’s progress, for the poor?”
“Lastly, why should there be a military base in Cheju, the far-most from the Korean truce line and tainted by the wounds of the April 3rd [1948] incident? Cheju is the Peace Island designated by the government. The relationship between any military base and the Peace Island is like water and oil.”
“With the construction of the naval base, the death of the April 3rd spirits has become meaningless…”
Bishop Kang cited both Catholic social teaching and the United Nations Charter to reinforce his position regarding the Korean/US naval base construction. The Jesuit provincial has permanently assigned two priests and a brother to continue carrying out daily Mass at the gate with the participation of Franciscan and Benedictine nuns, and others from the Catholic community. It is this Mass that allows the resistance to continue to block the military base for two hours every day, making the traffic wait going in and out of the entrance.
We will be holding Mass at the Chapel across from the gate on Christmas Eve, and again at the gate on Christmas Day. Bishop Kang will join in solidarity with the community stating: “the work has only just begun.”
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Bishop Kang for Truth TV – YouTube, Published on Oct 6, 2012 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0_cfYBz7fg
“I interviewed the bishop of Jeju Island, His Excellency Peter Kang on the last day of my stay on Jeju Island. Bishop Kang is an outspoken critic of militarism and arms buildup, and a strong advocate for the Church to be involved in issues of social justice and peace.” Regis
Tremblay
Catholic Priests unite despite navy and police insult. Bishop Kang U-Il says, “Peace is the result of justice and love.” Posted by Save Jeju Now, Nov. 13, 2012 http://savejejunow.org/catholic-priests-kang-u-il/
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Martha Hennessy
Toni Flynn
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Video clips from the daily Mass and Rosary at the Jeju Navy Base main gate
My heart is forever changed by what I saw, heard, and received at the naval base gate in Gangjeong village. The effects of jet lag linger and my mind holds on to the people who remain there, carrying on the struggle. The 100 bows begun in the dark, the Mass at the gate, the recital of the Rosary amidst roaring construction machines, the constant witness. The sound of knocking, grinding, giant jackhammers tearing away at the island still rings in my head. Our peacemaking efforts have taken on a tremendously stronger meaning when practiced in the context of what Father Bill from Tacoma called Eucharistic resistance.
There is always the urgent feeling that we are not doing enough. I would awaken at 5 in the morning; my soul feeling devoured by this scourge taking form near the St. Francis Peace Center. One morning after the 100 bows I crossed onto the concrete breakwater at the sea’s edge and had a bird’s eye view onto the front of the base. The massive wall dwarfed me, leaving me feeling puny and helpless in the face of this insistent, mindless drive towards destruction. Standing at the gates of Mordor my very being clamored for protection and safety. I also felt like throwing myself at it. The construction workers continued with their jobs, oblivious to the wailing of heaven and earth, grieving over this great sin. I trudged back to the Center for breakfast feeling empty, distraught. I can only begin to imagine the toll this has taken on all the people who have sustained their efforts of resistance over the long haul.
On my way home through Seoul, I was able to meet with a small group of representatives from labor unions, mothers for peace, and the Protestant community. Labor leader Han Sang-Gyun is now imprisoned and on hunger strike. Police oppression continues to grow in South Korea, along with civil unrest. The demonization and exaggerated threat of North Korea is used to justify the purchase of yet more military weaponry from the United States. I spoke of the crucified body of Christ as I saw it on the island of Jeju. We all struggle to link the many causes together that make up the picture of global oppression and violence. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Philip Berrigan spoke of the need for a general strike to shut down the economy of nations run amok. But we must have in hand a ready list of clear demands needed to reform the structures of sin. Together, how do we lay out a new world in which it is easier to be good?
Meanwhile I am back in Vermont, helping to care for small grandsons, and waiting for the ewes to give birth, no doubt holding off from the cold spell ahead. We must hold all of these things in our hearts.
Enjoying time with our hosts before our departure from St. Francis Peace Center in Gangjeong.
