Observing protests in Koreatown (New York City)

In December 2024, I had the opportunity to visit New York City on vacation. During my visit, I chanced upon a protest that was taking place in Koreatown NYC. After observing the crowd for a period of time, I realised that the protests were in relation to the current political turmoil surrounding President Yoon Suk Yeol. On December 3, 2024, he declared martial law, alleging that the National Assembly was engaging in "anti-state activities". This unprecedented action caused him to receive hostile condemnation from both opposition parties and members of his own political party.

The protest I observed was particularly interesting given its unique format. Instead of rallying behind synchronised chants, the protest was extremely lighthearted, with protestors singing Christmas carols and waving neon glow sticks. As seen in the photographs below, there was even a sound system set up to facilitate the “sing-along session”. This experience truly reminded me of how creative individuals can be when exercising their freedom of assembly and expression.