Seoul Queer Parade fills city center with rainbows

Seoul's city center transformed into a vibrant spectacle of color on June 13th as the 27th Seoul Queer Parade filled the streets with rainbows. The annual event, which began in 2000, saw thousands of participants gather for a day of celebration and visibility.

Starting in the morning, over 70 booths were set up along Woojunguk-ro in Jongno-gu and Namdaemun-ro in Jung-gu. Attendees, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, enjoyed the festive atmosphere, taking photos and receiving souvenirs. The main march commenced in the afternoon, beginning at Jonggak Station, passing through Myeongdong, and concluding at Euljiro 1-ga Station.

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We walk together in the city, creating a flow with our individual steps.

Organizers described the march as a collective creation of a shared flow, celebrating diversity and envisioning a better world. The parade aimed to make the presence of sexual minorities visible and foster solidarity. Despite the celebratory mood, a counter-protest against homosexuality was also present, with participants holding signs near the parade route.

The event showcased various groups, including the Rainbow Riders, who participated in the march. The parade route was lined with onlookers, and the vibrant displays, including a large rainbow banner reflected in a participant's sunglasses, captured the spirit of the event.

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We celebrate diversity on the street and reveal our existence, together envisioning the world we desire.