NHRC Chairperson Ahn Chang-ho works at office during Seoul Queer Culture Festival, avoids attendance

Ahn Chang-ho, Chairperson of South Korea's National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), was present at the commission's office on the day of the Seoul Queer Culture Festival, rather than attending the event itself. This decision came after Ahn's initial announcement to attend both the festival and a counter-protest sparked significant criticism from various groups.

“

The NHRC staff members were conducting on-site monitoring for hate speech response and other issues.

According to internal records, Ahn arrived at the NHRC headquarters around 10:50 AM on June 13, the day the festival took place. The NHRC stated that Ahn's presence was to be available for monitoring activities related to hate speech and potential conflicts, which were being conducted by NHRC staff at both the Queer Culture Festival and the 'Holy Fortress National Convention,' a counter-demonstration organized by conservative Christian groups.

“

It is also the duty of the head of the institution to be in a position to receive reports on any situation. The Chairperson came to work to prepare for special circumstances.

However, the extent of Ahn's direct involvement in these monitoring activities remains unclear. One NHRC staff member involved in the monitoring reported not receiving any specific instructions or reports from Ahn that day. Another staff member was unaware of the Chairperson's presence. Attending the office for monitoring purposes on a Saturday is considered highly unusual for an NHRC Chairperson.

“

The Chairperson, making excuses of neutrality, ultimately turned his back on the minorities. It is questionable who would believe the sincerity of his claim that he came to work for Queer Festival monitoring, when he did not even wait during the 12.3 state of emergency.

Ahn's decision not to attend the Queer Culture Festival marks the second consecutive year he has missed the event, despite the NHRC's mandate to combat discrimination based on sexual orientation. This follows his controversial statement suggesting attendance at both the festival and the opposing rally. Ultimately, due to the Queer Culture Festival organizers' refusal to allow an NHRC booth, Ahn canceled his participation in both events. Critics, like lawmaker Seo Mi-hwa, questioned the sincerity of Ahn's stated reason for attending the office, contrasting it with his actions during a previous national crisis.

“

Expressions that could spread hatred towards minorities were confirmed at the 'Holy Fortress National Convention' rally held by the 'Holy Fortress' side during this year's Seoul Queer Culture Festival.