Save Jeju Now

No War Base on the Island of Peace

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

    Photo by Park Han-sol

    “Beyond the blockade, toward solidarity and connection!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    _ Free Free Palestine!

    Oct. 11, 2025

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

    (Translation by Kaia ‘Curry’ Vereide)

    A photo by Licky Rooney (Lee Gil-hoon)

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

    Related articles

    [Interview] Haecho knew she might die. Trying to bring aid to Gaza was worth the risk.
    https://english.hani.co.kr/arti/english_edition/e_international/1226713.html

    [Interview] Korean activist on Gaza aid flotilla recounts mistreatment in Israeli detention
    https://english.hani.co.kr/arti/english_edition/e_international/1223314.html

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

    Photo by Ttochi/ Oct. 4th, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Liberation of Gaza is liberation for all!

    Liberation of Palestine is liberation for all!

    Free Free Palestine!

    October 4, 2025

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

    (Translated by Curry)

  • Gangjeong Struggle 5000 Days : Solidarity Messages

    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! 

    ①一番記憶に残っていることは、2012年9月5日、済州で開かれたIUCNと同時開催のシンポジウムと江汀交流のために、仁川空港に到着した沖縄からの参加者10数名のうち、私を含めて4名が入国拒否され、同じく東京から到着した1名も入国拒否をされたことです。（写真添付）②韓国政府は、非道な済州海軍基地建設問題が、世界中に知れ渡ることを、極度に恐れていたため、沖縄·日本から江汀に向かう私たちの入国を拒否したのだと思います。平和を希求する世界中の人々が心を寄せる江汀の海軍基地反対闘争、沖縄も人権·平和の国際連帯で辺野古新基地建設を阻止します。함께 하겠습니다. 투쟁! 평화! 연대! -高橋年男

    denied entry at Incheon Airport

    Eiji Tomita, Okinawa Korea People’s 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.

    私が一番記憶に残っていることは、沖韓民衆連帯の豊見山さんや高橋さんと一緒に江汀の海軍基地反対運動に参加した時、豊見山さんと私は２度も入国拒否を受けた事です。最初に参加した１週間の国際交流合宿の楽しさと闘いの厳しさは忘れることが出来ません。突然と村にサイレンが鳴り響き、多くの人たちが走り始めて基地建設の入り口に集まり座り込みを始める。女性の数人は鎖を体に巻き付けて抵抗する姿に驚き、勇気をもらいました。-富田英司

    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

  • Gangjeong Village Story: Monthly Newsletter |January 2017 Issue

    In this January 2017  Edition:

    No Samsung! the No.1 power of South Korea!/ For a Jeju native to survive/ Solidarity Trip to Hawaii From Jeju Island/ Henoko struggle goes on despite hardships/ Welcome the judgment of acquittal on reservist objector/ Jeju sea, covered with wind farms?/ Trial update/ The 18th Gangjeong Peace School etc.

    Download the PDF

  • [Hankyoreh] Residents of Gangjeong Village left scarred and bloody

    A re-posed article from here.

    Koh Kwon-il, vice chair of the village committee and chair of the action committee against the naval base in Gangjeong Village, Jeju Island, calling for the government to waive its right to indemnity.

    With indemnity, government apparently trying to send a message about what happens to people who oppose government projects

    On Jan. 30, during the Lunar New Year holiday, I visited Gangjeong Village in Jeju Island. Faded and tattered yellow banners were fluttering in the fierce wind around the Jeju Naval Base, with slogans such as “No naval base in Gangjeong Village,” “Resolutely opposed to the naval base” and “Forfeit the right to indemnity.” The rough waves of the dark blue sea ceaselessly battered Gangjeong Port.

    Today, the residents of Gangjeong Village feel a mixture of resignation and rage against the government. I met with Koh Kwon-il, vice chair of the village committee and chair of the action committee against the naval base. Koh and I were in the same class in high school. Koh has enjoyed drawing comics since his high school days, and he was always serious and optimistic. When he was attending graduate school in Seoul, he made a name for himself as a cartoonist, and his cartoons were syndicated in monthly magazines and sports newspapers. When he returned home to Jeju in 2008, after 26 years, he stood on the front line of the struggle. He did not stand by and watch what was happening to his home.

    When I met this bronze-faced man at the site of the struggle, he no longer looked as he had in his late teens, but his personality remained mild and reasonable. Overcome with homesickness during his university years, he told me he had gone home and found healing for his body and soul by fishing and going for walks on the Gureombi Rocks.

    The Gangjeong villagers’ campaign against the naval base is now in its tenth year. When the campaign began in Apr. 2007 with most villagers objecting to a unilateral decision by the minority to allow the base to be built, few thought it would last so long.

    Despite the long struggle of the residents of Gangjeong Village, construction of Jeju Naval Base was completed in Feb. 2016. But the psychological and physical pain inflicted upon the residents during the construction process, as well as the damage to their property, continue today. More than 700 people were arrested by the police, and 392 cases were taken to court. They have been fined more than 400 million won (US$364,000). The naval base changed the face of the village and plunged the residents into conflict.

    When construction ended on the base, President Park Geun-hye said she hoped that “this would be a significant opportunity for coexistence and harmony with the local community.” But when Samsung C&T asked to be compensated for the delay in the construction, the navy paid 27.3 billion won (US$23.64 million) and then stabbed the villagers in the back by demanding that 116 individuals and five organizations, including the village council, pay 3.45 billion won (US$2.98 million) just one month after the ribbon-cutting ceremony. In addition to this, Samsung C&T and Daelim Industrial are moving forward with a request for the navy to pay tens of billions of won in compensation.

    After severely scarring the villagers during the construction of the naval base, the government, far from resolving the conflict, continues to provoke their anger. In Oct. 2016, 165 lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition parties submitted a resolution asking the government to forfeit its right to indemnity. “The government must never use lawsuits against the people (to whom sovereignty belongs) to push the people to the brink of the cliff of pain,” the lawmakers said.

    Not only Jeju Island Governor Won Hee-ryong and the Jeju Island legislature but even the Jeju Island Lawyers’ Association advised and urged the government to forfeit its right to indemnity, but the government’s position is unshakeable. The government apparently intends this to be a warning to the public about what happens when people oppose a government project.

    There is no precedent for the government demanding that its citizens pay it billions of won in restitution. During a meeting of the Gangjeong Village Council on Jan. 23, villagers angrily asked, “Is this a country?” They described the indemnity as “bloody pus” — sweat and blood squeezed out of hurting people.

    “Just because it’s a government project doesn’t mean you can suppress the people‘s voices. The people have already endured so many inconveniences during their struggle to defend their community, and forcing them to pay restitution is state violence,” Koh said angrily.

    The villagers are doing their best to avoid conflict. These people already experienced state violence during the Apr. 3 Incident, more than 70 years ago, and we must not dredge up that trauma. Unless we embrace the residents of Gangjeong Village, “coexistence” and “harmony” will be no more than empty words. The presidential candidates need to clean the bloody pus off the people of Gangjeong Village.

    By Huh Ho-joon, Jeju correspondent
    Please direct questions or comments to [english@hani.co.kr]

  • Gangjeong Village Story: Monthly Newsletter |November 2016 Issue

     

    november-2016_final-page-1In this November Edition:

    Step Down Park Geun Hye! Mass Anti-Government Rallies; GSOMIA etc. are INVALID; Navy brings children to experience war culture; International Tribunal on Forced Eviction’s recommendation on Jeju navy base; Choi Soon-sil gate with Lockheed Martin and Samsung; Why I object to my fourth year of military reserves training; Trial updates; Solidarity message for the Standing Rock protesters etc.

    Download PDF

  • Walking for Peace on Jeju Island

    The below is re-blogged from here.

    a
    VFP members Ken Jones (left), Bruce Gagnon (center) and Will Griffin (right) remembering the two Korean-American women who were to lead our trip to Korea but were denied entry into the country due to their work against US deployments of the THAAD ‘missile defense’ system here that will be aimed at China and Russia.

    We gathered at the new Navy base front gate this morning just after 8:00 am in order to get registered for the six-day peace walk around Jeju Island, South Korea.  Many in the crowd walked down an entry road to the main gate that of course was blocked off with higher than normal security standing guard while military music blasted out for all to hear.

    It was sad to see the new base housing for military personnel and their families and to get a glimpse of the warship docks. I was imagining very soon that US Navy destroyers, nuclear submarines, and aircraft carriers will be ported there.  Gangjeong village has a population of 2,000 people and there are expected to be anywhere from 3,000-7,000 navy personnel based here at some point.  And then figure in the many hundreds of sailors on visiting warships.  This once quiet fishing and farming community will be torn asunder even more than it already has been.

    Gangjeong villagers though have proven to be determined and resilient during this 10-year non-violent struggle to oppose the Navy base.  Before we began walking this morning a news conference was held right in front of the main gate and the village Mayor Cho Kyung Cheol said that “People in the village have been treated like dogs and pigs” by the Navy and the government.  He spoke of even more lawsuits being filed by the government and Samsung (the lead base construction contractor) seeking $3 million in ‘damages’ against the village and 116 persons in the village (and their supporters) because they allegedly impeded the construction process.  One activist called the fines “A new form of oppression” against the village.

    b

    Former Mayor Kang reminded the walkers of the “dignity of nature” and said, “We will continue to work to stop the Navy base.  We remember the people all over the country, and around the world, who have helped us.  The Navy base will help lead to war.”

    Six hundred people registered for the peace walk with two teams evenly divided – one heading East and the other West.  The international guests (from Taiwan, New Zealand, US, Japan, Philippines and Ireland) were split between the two teams.  Our Veterans For Peace delegation is with the east team.

    c

    We walked 11.5 miles today in the high heat and the hot top (what Boston folks call the asphalt) only made it worse – sort of like walking for six hours through a steam room.  Everyone was sweating but it was remarkable to see our large group stay together the whole way – especially so because many families came from the Korean mainland and brought their small children and they walked the entire way.

    The food was prepared by teams of volunteers back in Gangjeong village and trucked out to us for lunch and dinner.  During breaks and lunch the iconic Catholic priest Fr. Mun joined us hobbling around with his cane but still inspiring people as he as done in virtually every progressive movement in South Korea for many, many years.

    Legendary Catholic priest Fr. Mun

    A van with a sound system (which included three speakers on top and two big ones in the back of the van) led the walk with its back door open blasting music to keep us singing and dancing to popular movement songs – many of which I recognized from previous trips to Korea.  Now and then people were handed the microphone as we walked and asked to speak.  I got a turn and told the story about the recent arrests in Bath, Maine when the Zumwalt 12 blocked the road and a gate at the June ‘christening’ of another Navy destroyer at the Bath Iron Works shipyard.  I told people that before we did our action we read a statement of solidarity from Gangjeong village.  (The Zumwalt 12 will go through arraignment on August 2 in the West Bath court, I obviously won’t be there.  Our lawyer will offer my ‘not guilty’ plea on my behalf.)

    Jeju is a tourist haven during the summer so the traffic was heavy while we walked today.  We walked along the beautiful ocean, through small villages, and through a densely populated city – even spending at least an hour taking up one lane in a very busy four-lane highway.  So we are being seen – it’s really quite a sight to see a couple hundred people singing and dancing with their yellow shirts and flags flapping in the breeze.

    e

    I am glad to be here – sun burnt, sore feet, but soaring heart.  There is only one way that we might be able to stop the crazy US imperial war machine and that is by organizing global protests and taking the war and peace issue directly to the people.  It’s an honor to be part of this peace walk.

    Bruce

    Walking for Peace on Jeju Island

    …………………………………………..

    See Bruce K.  Gagnon’s records on the march (Click the words)

    [Video]2016 Jeju Peace March(With English subtitles)

    Lessons from Jeju Grand March for Life & Peace (Aug. 7)

    [Music video]Drop the Lawsuit Against Jeju Activists! (Aug. 6)

    [Music video] Walk Around Jeju Island (Aug. 6)

    We Must Support One Another (Aug. 6)

    Peace Walk Day 3 – Jeju Faces Even More Militarization (Aug. 3)

    Day 2: Jeju Peace Walk Update (Aug. 2)

    Day 1: Walking for Peace on Jeju Island (Aug. 1)

  • After Eight Years of Protest of Construction of Naval Base, Gangjeong Villagers Sued by South Korean Navy

    Re-blogged from here

    On the 100 bows and dances mentioned in the main content of the article, click respectively here and here.

    By Ann Wright

    Ann1

    The South Korean Navy filed a civil lawsuit against 116 individual anti-base protesters and five groups including the Gangjeong Village Association, demanding $3 million in compensation for alleged construction delays caused by protests over the past eight years.

    In one of the longest, strongest protests against more military bases in our world, the villagers of Gangjeong, Jeju Island, South Korea have achieved international recognition of their spiritual and corporal resistance and persistence in trying to preserve unique natural features of their community, the Gureombi Rocks.

    Samsung was the primary contractor for the $1 BILLION dollar project and who filed a lawsuit against the government for slow down of work caused by the protests. Samsung’s profit margin was impacted by the protests!

    Villagers are very angry about the lawsuit that, if upheld, would bankrupt everyone named. To show its displeasure to the Navy, the village moved its City Hall to a tent on the main road across from the entrance to the base. The Vice-Mayor holds city meetings in the tent and sleeps there!


     Ann2
    (image by Photo Ann Wright)   DMCA

     

    Lawyers for the activists wrote that the navy’s lawsuit is “an unjustified declaration of war against the people. When the reckless development of the state and large construction companies threaten the right of citizens to a peaceful existence, the right of citizens to oppose this must be guaranteed as their natural and constitutional right since sovereignty rests with the people. To condemn this action as illegal is to delegitimize the foundation of democracy.”

    To buy off public support for the $1 BILLON dollar unnecessary naval base, the South Korean government built a huge sports complex for use by the local community. The facilities are located on the upper part of the area condemned for the naval base. The area has a track and field sports stadium, a 50-meter indoor swimming pool, indoor gymnasium, library, computer center, two restaurants, a 7/11 convenience store and a hotel on the top floor.

     

    Villagers commented that major sports facilities were built in the nearby city of Segiwopo and have been used by them for years. They say that these facilities will not make up for the loss of the cultural and spiritual areas dynamited and concreted forever.

    That’s why the protests continue at Gangjeong Village!

    100 Bows Morning Vigil

    Every morning for the past eight years, at 7am, rain, snow or good weather, Gangjeong Village activists reflect through 100 bows to the universe on their lives of activism for a peaceful world while confronting the war machine at one of its gates.

    The thoughts represented in 100 Bows span all religions and spiritual traditions. A few of the thoughts include:

    1. While holding in my heart that truth gives freedom to life I make my first bow.

    7. As I hold in my heart that possessions create other possessions and wars only give birth to other wars and cannot solve problems, I make my seventh bow.

    12. As I hold in my heart that the way to life-peace is to accept the world’s pain as my own pain I make my twelfth bow.

    55. As I resolve to let go of chauvinistic nationalism which makes other countries insecure, I make my fifty-fifth bow.

    56. As I resolve to let go of the superiority of my religion which makes other faiths insecure, I make my fifty-sixth bow.

    72. As I resolve to respect all lives without any prejudice and bias, I make seventy-second bow.

    77. As I remember that the beginning of violence starts from my opinionated ideas and hatred towards others because of differences, I make my seventy-seventh bow.

    100. As I pray that the light that I kindle leads all sentient beings to live in peace and happiness, I make my one-hundredth bow.

    Human Chain Noon Vigil

    One day I was at Gangjeong Village this week we endured a cold wind and rain for the noon time “Human Chain” at the entrance of the Naval Base at Gangjeong Village. The winds were fierce — the southern coast is known for its very strong winds and one of the reasons why many were perplexed that the naval base was proposed for an area of the island where high winds and high seas are most frequent around the island.

    Ann6

    (image by Photo Ann Wright)   DMCA

     

    Other days I’ve been here, the weather was nice for the singing and dancing in the roadway to remind the South Korean Navy that the opposition to the construction of the naval base has not ended, despite the construction being complete.

    The great spirit continues to challenge the navy base and militarism with the noon dance. For those who have visited Gangjeong, both events and the sounds remain with us — as we remember that each day dedicated activists in Gangjeong Village continue the struggle against militarism.

    Ann7
    (image by Photo Ann Wright)   DMCA

     

    Navy Week on Jeju Island — Finding Part of Gureombi Rock

    While I was in Gangjeong Village, the South Korean Navy had “Navy Week on Jeju Island.” Navy weeks are designed as a public relations event to get favorable public opinion. Most activists would not have been allowed on the navy base even if they had wanted to go — which they did not want to do. I wanted to see where the massive amount of concrete poured into the area had gone — so I produced my passport and I and another recent arrival were passed onto the base. We saw Aegis missile destroyer ships, helicopters, landing craft and demonstrations of martial arts.

    But the most important thing we saw was what we think is the only remaining part of Gureombi Rock. Behind the first building on the left side of the main road past the entrance gate, is a small lake with one side of what appears to be a very small piece of the Gureombi Rock! The other side of the lake is composed of rock fill, but the northern side seems to be original rock.

    The coastline surrounding Gangjeong Village consisted of one contiguous volcanic rock called Gureombi which was a 1.2 kilometer-long rock formed by lava flowing into the sea and rocks rising from the seabed. The estuary informed in this area was Jeju Island’s only rocky wetland and acted as home to several endangered species and soft coral reefs.


    Ann8
    (image by Photo Ann Wright)   DMCA

     

    In 1991, the Jeju Provincial government designated the coastline surrounding Gangjeong Village an Absolute Conservation Area (ACA). In 2002, the area where the naval base construction is currently ongoing was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Conservation Area. In December 2009, Jeju Island Governor Kim Tae-hwan nullified the ACA designation to proceed with the naval base construction. The Jeju Branch of the Korean Federation of Environmental Movements have criticized the Navy’s Environmental Impact Assessment noting that several endangered species are absent from the report.

    During its recent archeological excavation of the Gangjeong coastal area the Jeju Cultural Heritage Research Institute discovered artifacts dating back to 4-2 B.C.E. inside the naval base construction zone. According to the director of the Korean Cultural Heritage Policy Research Institute only 10-20% of the site was dug up during construction, violating the cultural properties protection law.

    At a talk that I gave two days later, many from the village discussed how to ensure that the tiny portion of Gureombi Rock remains intact and continues its cultural and spiritual ties to Gangjeong Village.

    I mentioned that in some military bases in the United States, there are plaques to remind us of those who lived there before the U.S. government took over their lands.

    And even in the family housing area on the naval base, there are two murals that represent the indigenous peoples.

    Ann9

    (image by Photo Ann Wright)   DMCA

    We hope that some type of mural will be created on the naval base depicting the importance of Gureombi Rocks so that hopefully the remaining rocks will not be blown up or concreted over!

    Peace Farming

    How do anti-war, peace activists in Gangjeong village support themselves? Some work in the Peace Farm Cooperative! One rainy morning Joan of Ark took us to two peace cooperative farms. The first was in the protected, covered greenhouse where they grow corn and beans-I asked how big the greenhouse was and she said 800 pyeongs — apparently a word indicating how big a grave should be — the length of a person’s body. An interesting way of measuring!

    Ann10

    Then we went out of the village to their second farm in a …cemetery — or actually next to a cemetery where they grow corn and peanuts. The grass in the cemetery is allowed to grow over the gravestones and once a year a family may come to clear out the area around the gravestone. After 30 years, the family may have the ashes removed to another place.

    Currie, an activist from the US, mentioned that in the US, some people want to be buried in a natural area where grass and weeds are allowed to grow, not in a formal cemetery.

    Customers buy produce online from the Peace Cooperative!

    St. Francis Peace Center


    Ann11 (image by Photo Ann Wright)DMCA

    The St. Francis Peace Center in Gangjeong Village has a remarkable history. In the 1970s, Father Mun was jailed for his protests during the military dictatorship and 30 years later he was awarded compensation for wrongful arrest and years in jail. With the compensation money, he purchased land overlooking the pale where the naval base was to be constructed. The Bishop of Jeju Island decided to help build a peace center on the land — and now a wonderful place for those working for peace and social justice is in Gangjeong Village! It is a beautiful building with a 4th floor viewing area so the eyes of the peace house can alert the community to what the war machine is doing!
    Ann Wright is a 29 year US Army/Army Reserves veteran who retired as a Colonel and a former US diplomat who resigned in March, 2003 in opposition to the war on Iraq. She served in Nicaragua, Grenada, Somalia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Sierra Leone, Micronesia and Mongolia. In December, 2001 she was on the small team that reopened the US Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. She is the co-author of the book “Dissent: Voices of Conscience.” (www.voicesofconscience.com). She has written frequently on rape in the military.

  • Collection of Global Solidarity Messages Writing in Protest for the Navy to Drop Its Wrongful Lawsuit

    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)

    ………………………………………………………………………………

    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.”

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

     

    Antonio (on April 26)

    DON’T GIVE UP!!!

    YOUR FIGHT IS OUR FIGHT!!!

    Regards,

    Antonio

    @Ilprescelto77

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

     

    Catherine Christie (on April 25)

    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

    ………………………………………………..

    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

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Nick Deane (on April 26)

    I sent the message below to the Korean Embassy in Canberra, Australia.

    Thoughts are with you!

    Nick

    ………………………………………

    Unjust measures have been taken against those who are peacefully protesting the construction of naval facilities on Jeju Island.

    The lawsuits taken out against local residents are wrong and should be dropped.

    We neither want nor need more war-waging facilities, on Jeju or anywhere else!

    The whole world is watching!

    Nick Deane.

    (Sydney, Australia)

    (Go to the Korean translation site, here)

    Ulrich Duchrow (on April 29)

    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

    (Go to translation site, here)

     

    Catherine Fontanazza  (on April 26)

    A note to the protestors :

    Keep up the work, your non violent protest is very important  and I will be writing to President Obama about your situation.

    Power to the people.

    Sincerely,

    Kate Fontanazza

    (Go to the Korean translation site, here)

    Bruce K. Gagnon (on April 5)

    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.
    We eagerly await your positive response.
    In peace,
    Bruce K. Gagnon
    Coordinator
    Global Network Against Weapons & Nuclear Power in Space
    Brunswick, ME , United States
    http://www.space4peace.org
    http://space4peace.blogspot.com  (blog)

    Thank God men cannot fly, and lay waste the sky as well as the earth. – Henry David Thoreau

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

     

    Boyette Jurceles Jr (on April 24)

    Thanks for the updates.  Philippines will surely respond to this. We will also circulate your appeal to our global network.

    In solidarity and more power!

    Boyette Jurceles Jr.

    Ban the Bases!

    And BAYAN

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

     

    Natasha Mayers (on April 29)

    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.

     Respectfully,

     Natasha Mayers

    Whitefield, Maine

     (Go to translation site, here)

     

    Rachael Berman Melville (on April 25)

    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.

    GangjeongPort

    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.

    All the best and peace,

    Rachael Berman Melville

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    MIGRANTE International (on April 26)

    To the dear people of Gangjeong Village,

    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.

    Down with Imperialism!

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Missionary Society of St. Columban (on April 14)

    Forwarded by Fr. Pat Cunningham

    JEJU-LETTER

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Nogawa Mio (on April 9)

    To South Korean President Park Geun-Hye 

    Mio

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Stuart Rees (on April 25)

    Dear Friends,

    Military interests in using Jeju as a base is  another expression of violence which should be opposed by every non-violent means.

    The world needs to dismantle military vases not build more.

    Congratulations on your brave stand.

    In Solidarity and with Best Wishes,

    Stuart Rees, former Director,

    Sydney Peace Foundation

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Arnie Saiki (on April 29)

    To: South Korean President Park Geun-Hye

    Dear President Park:

    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

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

     

    Veterans for Peace(on April 14)

    “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. “

    Tarak Kauff

    Veterans For Peace
    Board of Directors
    Managing Editor
    Peace In Our Times

    VfP1

    VfP22

    (Go to the translation site, here)

    Russell Wray (on April 27)

    Dear Friends,

    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

    RA

    “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….”

    ……………………………..

    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

    ……………………………………………………………………..

    And a same  email  to the South Korean Consulate in Boston , with Bruce K. Gagnon’s April 9 letter being forwarded , too. 

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

    Angie Zelter (on April 24)

    Dear Gangjeong Resisters,

    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.

    (Go to Korean translation site, here)

  • An Appeal for Protest

    bannerf
    The buildings shown behind the banner are military residence inside the base

    V3
    The village representatives have been doing tent sit-in in protest to the unjust navy lawsuit since April 10th despite the police threat on the first day. For more, see here and here.

     

    April 23, 2016

    Dear friends of Gangjeong Village:

    This weekend, our village is honored to host the 1st International Peace Film Festival in Gangjeong (April 23 to 26). Unfortunately, we also find ourselves in grave danger and need your urgent help. Although our peace movement has been recognized internationally as an “exemplary non-violent struggle” by organizations like the International Peace Bureau and Veterans for Peace, we are currently struggling for our very survival.

    Please read the letter from Bruce Gagnon below, which describes the staggering US$2.9 million lawsuit currently threatening the village. We are appealing for the support of you and your organizations: (1) Please forward this letter, along with your own brief message of protest, to Korean embassies and consulates. (2) Then share through your networks to raise awareness and to ask for others to join in protest. You may also refer to  a protest letter by the St. Columban Missionaries in Britain, here. (3) Finally please send us any short solidarity messages, images, videos which we will share with people here. (gangjeongintl@gmail.com)

    We are asking that these be sent ideally during Aug 26-30th, the launch period for this protest. Also, if you have not done so, please join No Naval Base on Jeju on Facebook for more updates and information, or visit savejejunow.org.

    The reasons we chose April 26th: It symbolizes the overturning of democratic processes that the navy had used in order to create a cover story for building the base. On that day in 2007, it organized an ad hoc general meeting among a tiny fraction of the residents to make the deceptive claim that the village approved the base. In protest, the villagers responded by holding their own plebescite four months later, when 94% of more than 70% electorates of the village population voted to oppose the base project*. However, the government has never recognized the village’s legitimate democratic vote. Instead it relied upon the fraudulent “approval process” that took place on April 26, 2007: Not only was there anti-democratic voter-suppression, with no advance publicity or public discussion, there was not even a vote; instead, approval was absurdly measured by clapping. By bringing attention to the anniversary of this date, we seek to emphasize how the base has been forced upon the village through lies and repression despite overwhelming popular opposition to it. The date is also the last day of the 1st International Peace Film Festival in Gangjeong.

    For our April 26-30th protest campaign, the key message is that: (1) the lawsuit against Gangjeong is wrongful; (2) the navy’s lawsuit must be dropped (3) Also, we denounce the history of unjust measures that have been used to install the base.

    We greatly appreciate your time and apologize for the very short notice.

    Thank you always for your solidarity.

    Sincerely,

     

    The Gangjeong Village Association

     

    ======

    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 116 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.

    We eagerly await your positive response.

    In peace,

    Bruce K. Gagnon
    Coordinator
    Global Network Against Weapons & Nuclear Power in Space
    http://www.space4peace.org
    http://space4peace.blogspot.com  (blog)

    Thank God men cannot fly, and lay waste the sky as well as the earth. – Henry David Thoreau

     

     

    • We also thank St. Columban Missionaries in Britain for its protest letter this April. See here.

    Navy drop the lawsuit