On March 1, 2026, marking the 107th anniversary of Korea’s historic March 1st Independence Movement, approximately 4,000 participants gathered in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, for the “March 1 Gwanghwamun ONE KOREA National Rally,” organized by the Citizens’ Solidarity for ONE KOREA.
Held under the slogan “No Two Koreas, Yes One Korea,” the rally brought together representatives from civil society, religious communities, North Korean escapees, separated families, overseas Koreans, and youth groups to reaffirm public support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
The Citizens’ Solidarity for ONE KOREA was launched last year by approximately 50 organizations seeking to expand citizen-led dialogue and action for Korean reunification. Organizers stated that the rally was intended to strengthen grassroots engagement for peaceful unification at a time of growing concern over the deepening division of the peninsula.
A Grassroots Movement for Peaceful Reunification
Speakers throughout the rally emphasized that Korean reunification should not depend solely on governments or political leadership, but must be built through solidarity among citizens and civil society.
Jang Man-soon, chair of the Committee for Ten Million Separated Families, reflected on the lasting pain caused by national division, noting that millions of Korean families were separated after liberation and the Korean War. He also announced plans for a public fundraising campaign to support information access initiatives for the North Korean people.
In a video message, 106-year-old Kim Hyung-seok, Professor Emeritus of Yonsei University, emphasized that true reunification must be achieved by the Korean people themselves. He expressed hope that the growing ONE KOREA movement would help communicate sincerity and solidarity to North Koreans and encourage a shared path toward reunification.
Religious Leaders Call for Unity
Religious leaders from both Christian and Buddhist communities also participated in the event, expressing opposition to the idea of permanently dividing the Korean people into two separate states.
Pastor Kim Jin-hong stated that the spirit of the March 1st Independence Movement—grounded in self-determination, peace, and love for the nation—should continue to guide efforts toward reunification.
Venerable Hyein of the Jogye Order called on participants to sing “Our Wish Is Unification” together as an expression of hope for a united Korea. Rally participants joined in chorus, creating one of the event’s most memorable moments.
North Korean Escapees and Overseas Koreans Share Their Perspectives
Kang Chol-hwan, head of the North Korea Strategy Center and a representative of North Korean escapees, stressed the importance of human rights, freedom of information, and international awareness regarding conditions inside North Korea. Drawing lessons from German reunification, he emphasized the importance of supporting the North Korean people and promoting democratic values.
Kenneth Bae, head of the New Korea Foundation and representative of overseas Koreans, shared his personal experience of imprisonment in North Korea and expressed his belief that reunification is essential for the future and well-being of the Korean people.
Seo In-taek of Action for Korea United (AKU) also addressed the rally, emphasizing the importance of continued civic engagement and public participation in advancing peaceful reunification efforts.
Declaration for One Korea
During the rally, organizers presented a declaration outlining three core commitments:
● To pursue peaceful reunification in the spirit of the March 1st Independence Movement
● To support a unified Korea grounded in freedom, democratic values, and human rights
● To promote the vision of the “Korean Dream” rooted in the shared identity and heritage of the Korean people
Participants later marched through the Gwanghwamun area holding signs reading “No Two Koreas, Yes One Korea” while singing “Our Wish Is Unification.”
The rally reflected the growing momentum of Korean-led grassroots initiatives that seek to advance peaceful reunification through civic participation, shared values, and international awareness—principles closely aligned with the vision of the One Korea Global Campaign.
