In March 2022, two back-to-back events took place in Seoul: a candlelight vigil calling for an end to the war in Ukraine, and a march demanding the elimination of racial discrimination. Both events were open to everyone living in Korea, including refugees and migrants. They were co-organized by MAP (Migration to Asia Peace, a support organization for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers) and PSSP (People’s Solidarity for Social Progress), along with several other Korean civil society groups.

Friday, March 18, Anti-Ukraine War Candlelight Vigil

  • Date and time: Friday, March 18, 2022, 7:00 PM
  • Location: In front of the Russian Embassy in Seoul (43 Seosomunro 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, Jeongdong area)
  • Organizers: MAP, PSSP, and allied Korean civil society organizations

Background

Within just two weeks of Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022, more than 2.5 million Ukrainians had been forced to flee their homes. At the time, approximately 3,800 Ukrainians were living in Korea, and they were appealing for international solidarity toward a peaceful resolution.

Inside Russia, thousands of anti-war protesters had already been arrested. From March 4, 2022, the Kremlin began enforcing a law that criminalizes independent reporting on the war and anti-war protests with sentences of up to 15 years in prison.

The vigil was planned to continue every Friday until Russia stopped the bombing and withdrew its troops from Ukraine.

How to Participate

  • Feel free to bring your own sign or placard, and a mat to sit on.
  • If you are a Ukrainian refugee or a Russian anti-war activist and would like to speak in solidarity, please get in touch in advance. If you send your statement ahead of time, translation and interpretation support will be provided.

Key Questions and Discussion Topics

  • After this war ends, another crisis may follow. What should we do?
  • What role can the Korean government play in ending the war and protecting refugees?

Contact

To request speaking time or ask any questions, please reach out:

Sunday, March 20, March for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

  • Date and time: Sunday, March 20, 2022, 2:00 PM
  • Location: Near the Financial Center, 136 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (Exit 5, Gwanghwamun Station, Subway Line 5)
  • Organizers: MAP (a member organization of the Refugee Rights Network Korea) and a coalition of migrant and human rights groups

Background

March 21 is the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The day before this anniversary, migrant and human rights organizations came together to spread the message that “racial discrimination is violence” and to call on Korea to pass an Equal Rights Act (also known as the Anti-Discrimination Act).

MAP joins this gathering as a member of the Refugee Rights Network Korea, a coalition of organizations working for the rights of refugees and migrants in Korea. We hope you will join us in marching toward equality.

General Information for Both Events

  • Both the vigil and the march will be peaceful.
  • Everyone is welcome: Ukrainian refugees, Russian anti-war activists, migrants, and Korean citizens alike.
  • Schedules and locations may change depending on circumstances, so please confirm details with MAP (010-8438-0232) or PSSP (pssp4001@gmail.com) before attending.