WCC news: WCC stands with churches, prays for restoration of democratic governance in South Korea

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, following South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt on 3 December to impose martial law, expressed solidarity and support for the Korean churches, and all ecumenical and civil society partners working to defend human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in this time of crisis. Photo: Marcelo Schneider/WCC 6 December 2024 “The people of South Korea suffered grave violations of their fundamental rights under the military dictatorship regimes of the 1980s, against which South Korean churches and civil society movements led courageous campaigns for the establishment of democracy and respect for human rights,” said Pillay.  “As in the past, the WCC stands steadfastly alongside the churches and ecumenical and civil society partners in South Korea who seek justice against injustice, democracy against authoritarianism, and peace against conflict.” The WCC is closely monitoring subsequent events, in light of the instability provoked by this abuse of power and fears of further threats to South Korea’s democracy, Pillay added.  “We pray for the secure restoration of the rule of law and democratic governance in South Korea, and for justice and peace for the people of the Korean Peninsula.” Read the full statement NCCK Statement on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Declaration of Martial Law See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland