Members of Hong Kong Justice and Peace Commission (HKJPC) visited Gwangju in South Korea to learn about the people's struggle for democracy.
They heard about the Gwangju Uprising in 1980 when citizens took up arms after Chonnam University students demonstrating against the military government were beaten by soldiers. South Korean authorities said about 200 died in the uprising from May 18-27 but activists put the figure at about 2,000.
The "Justice and Peace Journey" held by the 12 Hong Kong visitors from Nov. 9-15 was co-organized by the Justice and Peace Commission of Gwangju Archdiocese.
The journey began with a tour of historical sites of the uprising guided by Kim Do-won, who survived the suppression. Kim Yang-rae, who was sentenced to jail for taking part in the uprising, spoke about the actions of the Catholic Church during and after the uprising.
The group visited the May Mothers, formed by women in the resistance and the mothers or sisters of victims, the May 18 Memorial Foundation, Gwangju Trauma Center and Gwangju Human Rights Peace Foundation, which supports victims of state violence.
Participant Lee Yuk Mei told ucanews.com that walking in the historical sites "I felt like I was at the scene of the struggle at that time and I could feel the road of resistance of the Gwangju people.”
Kim Do-won said civil society had prevented authorities from removing historical traces of the uprising.
"We received a warm reception from many local organizations and groups," said Molly Chu, a catechumen.
During and after the uprising, demonstrators were smeared as rioters and communists. While Gwangju was isolated, the Catholic Church recorded the truth and was the first to disclose the truth. The priest responsible for this task was arrested and interrogated.
"In times of turbulence, the church plays a significant role. Because we have the support from our faith, we need not be afraid and we can take a step forward," said Lee Yuk Mei.