South Korean Government Agency's Cancellation of Religious Event Sparks Global Outcry

A decision by the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization (GTO) to cancel a venue rental for a significant international religious event has ignited a global controversy, raising serious questions about religious freedom in South Korea. The cancellation, which occurred just hours before the event was set to begin, has led to a joint protest statement signed by 1,735 individuals and organizations worldwide, including 402 organizations, 758 religious representatives, and 977 individuals.

The event, titled "Religious Leaders Forum and Graduation Ceremony," was planned for October 30 in Paju, South Korea. It was expected to attract over 30,000 participants from 78 countries, including 1,000 religious leaders representing various faiths such as Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism. The abrupt cancellation at 11 pm on the day before the event, when preparations were already underway, has resulted in significant financial and psychological damage to the organizers and international participants.

The joint protest statement, delivered to the Government of the Republic of Korea on November 27, condemns the cancellation as an act of biased religious oppression through public power. The signatories argue that this action violates Article 20 of the South Korean Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion to all citizens. They claim the cancellation is an unconstitutional act of discrimination against a specific religion, infringing on religious freedom, human rights, and due process of law.

The statement demands several actions from the South Korean government, including an official apology from the Gyeonggi Provincial Government and the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization to both domestic and international religious organizations and the global community. It also calls for appropriate disciplinary actions against the officials responsible for the cancellation and the strengthening of fair and transparent venue reservation procedures.

The controversy has attracted international attention, with over 88 global leaders, including international law experts, religious leaders, education experts, and journalists, sending official documents and protest letters to the Republic of Korea. These leaders have expressed shock and disappointment at the administrative action and demanded prompt and appropriate measures to address the situation.

The timeline of events leading to the cancellation has raised questions about the decision-making process. The GTO had initially approved the rental on July 22 and confirmed the event details through multiple meetings and safety inspections. However, the cancellation came abruptly on October 29, citing security concerns related to recent North Korean actions and activities by a North Korean defector group. Organizers allege that pressure from opposing groups, including vested religious interests, may have influenced the decision.

This incident has broader implications for religious freedom and administrative transparency in South Korea. It highlights the delicate balance between security concerns and the protection of civil liberties, particularly in a region with complex geopolitical tensions. The international response underscores the global community's commitment to defending religious freedom and the importance of upholding constitutional rights.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the South Korean government will respond to the demands of the protesters and the international community. The resolution of this controversy could have significant implications for South Korea's reputation as a democratic nation that respects religious freedom and adheres to its constitutional principles.