By Soh Ji-young
Staff Reporter
Thousands of people gathered in downtown Seoul Saturday to protest the impending U.S.-led war against Iraq and to call for peace, joining millions of anti-war activists across the globe.
No major infractions were reported, although police briefly detained some activists and a few protestors sustained minor injuries. Police had earlier warned that the law would deal strictly with any act of violence or other illegal activities.
``We oppose the war against Iraq led by the United States, and our government’s position in backing it,’’ protesters shouted.
After starting the rally in Chongmyo Park, activists marched through the streets and headed toward Kwanghwamun where they held a candlelight protest.
A 39-year-old father by the name of Lee said he came out for the sake of his children.
``I thought it was part of my role as a father to promote peace and oppose war,’’ he said.
More than 7,000 riot police were deployed to the area to maintain public order.
Some participants also took the time to pay tribute to the two local girls killed by a U.S. armored vehicle in June 2002 and called for the revision of the Status of Forces Agreement governing the 37,000 U.S. troops here.
Organizers said they will continue to stage peaceful candlelight protests until the U.S. gives up what they call an unjust war that is guaranteed to result in the loss of innocent lives.
In Taehangno, hundreds of teacher unionists held a rally to voice their opposition to opening the education market before joining the candlelight vigils in the evening.
The rallies caused major traffic congestion throughout central Seoul.
jysoh@koreatimes.co.kr
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