The Girl Statue 'Ari' Will Create New Shared Memories in Berlin
The girl statue 'Ari' in Berlin has a significant role in fostering a shared culture and memory within the city.
The girl statue 'Ari', located at the ZK/U cultural space in Berlin, symbolizes the collective memory and shared culture of the city, as explained by Philipp Horst, one of the founders of ZK/U. This statue was previously removed by authorities in October of last year but has now found a new home at ZK/U, which supports artistic projects connecting urban spaces, art, and politics. The center's initiative to relocate 'Ari' reflects the community's commitment to preserving the statue as a piece of art that embodies the will of those who fight for it in Berlin.
Philipp Horst recounted the emotional journey of observing the statue's previous location, which was only about 240 meters away from the current site at ZK/U. He articulated the significance of the statue in representing the struggles within the community, especially after watching it being forcibly removed by police. For over three months, the statue was left in an outdoor storage area before being restored to its current location thanks to the support from the Korea Association of Germany. This ongoing conflict over the statue not only illustrates the vulnerability of such cultural symbols but also reinforces the broader discourse about memory, identity, and community solidarity in the face of bureaucratic actions.
The ongoing conversation around the statue highlights its role as a site of resistance and dialogue regarding historical issues related to the comfort women during World War II. As 'Ari' takes its new position in the Berlin cultural landscape, it prompts reflection on how communities can collectively remember and honor past injustices while forging a path toward reconciliation and understanding. The collaborative efforts of the ZK/U center and the Korea Association signify a growing recognition of the importance of these cultural symbols in fostering connections across cities and cultures.