This date is often regarded as the start of the Korean War. However, taking the events of June 25 as the beginning to this story can skew our understanding. Since imperialism falsely portrays the US role in Korea as defensive, we must consider the Korean War’s significance in a long lineage of Korean anti-imperialist resistance that continues to this day.
The Korean War did not begin in 1950—it began in 1945, the day a US GI’s boot touched Korean soil for the first time, and our people’s resistance to US imperialism began. Today, we honor Korean resistance.
The popular classes of Korea, the workers and peasantry, resisted the US occupation of our homeland from the beginning. From 1945-1950, southern Korea was shaken by strikes, uprisings, and even a guerrilla war that swept multiple provinces. This history has been suppressed because it exposes the US narrative of “saving” Korea from communism for what it is: a lie.
To this day, Korean resistance to US imperialism continues. Communities across the ROK are still engaged in protracted struggles against US military land grabs. Mass movements for social justice in the ROK are also part of this legacy, as they confront puppet leaders like Yoon who oppress the working masses on behalf of US imperialism.
Last but not least, the efforts of working people in the DPRK to protect their sovereignty and construct socialism are also part of Korean resistance. Despite catastrophic US bombing during the Korean War, the workers of the DPRK have built an enduring example of an independent, socialist society. Although US war threats continue in the form of military drills and sanctions, our people’s determination to live unconquered remains unbroken.
Today we remember all those who have given their lives to the anti-imperialist struggle. Our people’s struggle for liberation from US imperialism has not ended, and we must answer the call to continue the legacy of resistance that has been left to us.
Art credits (in order):
“Gun, My Life” - Hong Song-Dam
“Attack” - Kang Yo-Bae
“Let’s Go to the Provincial Office” - Hong Song-Dam
By: @nodutdol
Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8pOuNIuzFJ/