Over 150,000 South Koreans defy ban to march for Pride
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South Korea Pride Parade 2024: A Stand Against Discrimination
Over 150,000 LGBTQ+ people and their allies participated in the Pride in South Korea 2024 parade, defying authorities who banned the event for the second consecutive year. Despite the lack of official support from the government, the queer community and its supporters gathered in Seoul on 1 June to mark the 25th anniversary of the country’s Pride Parade.
While several countries around the world have legalized same-sex marriage, South Korea is yet to do so, leaving its LGBTQ+ citizens without the legal recognition they deserve. The annual Pride Parade serves as a platform for these individuals to raise their voices and demand equality and acceptance.
Authorities had previously denied permission for the parade to take place at Seoul Plaza, citing a scheduling conflict with another event. However, this did not deter the activists from coming together in solidarity. Despite opposition from the city’s mayor, thousands of people flooded the streets of Seoul, waving rainbow flags and orange balloons in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
The theme of this year’s parade was orange, symbolizing an intermediary quality between red and yellow. Organizers explained that just like the color orange exists independently, LGBTQ+ individuals also have their unique way of being that should be recognized and respected.
Various organizations, including the US embassy, IKEA, and Amnesty International, showed their solidarity by participating in the parade and pledging their support for the queer community. Despite facing opposition and restrictions from the city government, the LGBTQ+ community in South Korea demonstrated resilience and unity in their fight for equality.
However, just a few streets away from the Pride parade, Christian protesters voiced their disapproval of LGBTQ+ rights by holding signs against same-sex marriage and condemning homosexuality. This contrast highlights the ongoing struggle for acceptance and inclusion faced by the queer community in South Korea.
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LGBTQ+ parade
