Volunteers at a shelter in Seoul prepare traditional holiday foods for labor activists, hoping that next year they won't need to gather in protest.
In a heartwarming scene, volunteers gathered at the 'Kkuljam' shelter in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, to prepare traditional holiday foods such as dumplings and pancakes. This year's event marks the ninth consecutive holiday in which the shelter has prepared meals for labor activists enduring protests. Though such preparations may be routine, the sentiments behind them are profound, with participants hoping that next year these foods will not need to be made for those fighting for their rights on the streets. Kim So-yeon, a member of the shelter's operations committee, expressed the hope that there will be no need for such gatherings in the future, yet acknowledged the strength derived from the activists' persistence in struggle.
The prepared meals will be distributed to various protest sites around Seoul on the holiday itself, January 17, which underlines the ongoing struggle for labor rights amid economic hardships. With locations including major labor union protests and spaces demanding the reinstatement of dismissed workers, the act of sharing these traditional dishes serves as a beacon of solidarity and mutual support for those facing difficult circumstances. The participants, including families with children, feel a deep commitment to supporting their community, as illustrated by participant Lee Won-soo, who brought his children along to help. He noted the importance of exposing his children to these realities and fostering a sense of empathy and social responsibility.
One poignant moment came from Lee Won-soo's younger son, Han Seung-woo, who, at just 11 years old, voiced his pain regarding the harsh labor conditions of adults, by questioning the fairness of their struggles. This interaction highlights the perception and understanding children can gain from witnessing and participating in such charitable activities. Events like these blend culinary tradition with significant social commentary, reinforcing the idea that food can be a powerful tool for solidarity in the ongoing fight for rights and dignity in the labor movement.
