Alerts Sign-up
Global Ministries, representing the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the U.S. and Canada and the United Church of Christ in the U.S., has issued a statement expressing solidarity with South Korea amid recent political developments. The organizations have voiced their concerns following South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law on December 3.
The statement describes President Yoon's action as "a self-serving act that threatened the entire nation with fear and instability." It draws parallels to South Korea's history of martial law, particularly recalling the Gwangju Massacre in 1980 when hundreds of civilians were killed by government forces.
South Korean churches have been praised for their role during these times. The Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea and the National Council of Churches in Korea have been highlighted as "persistent voices for peace and justice." These church partners advocated for lawmakers to rescind President Yoon’s declaration and are now calling for his removal from office.
The Global Ministries emphasized its commitment to support these efforts, stating, "We join the ecumenical community worldwide in our commitment to stand with church partners and the people of South Korea."
The statement was signed by several religious leaders including Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, Rev. Teresa Hord Owens, Rev. Shari Prestemon, and Rev. Dr. LaMarco Cable.
