[Photo] 'Remember Fukushima!'... Enough with Nuclear Power Plants
A rally was held in Seoul to mark the 15th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, criticizing the South Korean government's plans for new nuclear power plants.
On November 11, in Seoul's Jongno District, activists gathered at the Sejong Center steps to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster with a declaration event against new nuclear power plants. They criticized the current government under Lee Jae-myung for its plans to construct two new nuclear reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs), emphasizing the dangers associated with nuclear energy. The rally featured loud calls for nuclear phase-out and demands for a just energy transition that does not rely on potentially hazardous nuclear power.
Activists dressed in costumes representing nuclear power plants, such as 'Kori' and 'Hanul', staged a performance to symbolize the need to thwart the Energy Minister Kim Sung-hwan’s proposals for new nuclear constructions in the Korean Peninsula. The rally drew attention from both citizens and tourists, as participants marched towards the Blue House (the presidential office), urging public awareness regarding nuclear energy risks. The activists held banners linked to transmission towers and concluded the event with a 'Die in' performance, laying on the ground to highlight the grave risks of nuclear accidents.
This event underscores the ongoing debate in South Korea regarding the future of nuclear energy, particularly in the wake of global concerns about nuclear safety following disasters like Fukushima. The movement epitomizes a growing call for sustainable energy alternatives and reflects the public's heightened awareness of climate change and energy policies. As the government navigates its energy strategy, the stark resistance from grassroots movements signals a significant local sentiment against nuclear energy initiatives.