Balloons floating into the sky may seem beautiful, but they inevitably cause suffering to wildlife. The colorful balloon fragments that land in mountains, fields, or oceans are often mistaken as food by animals. Wildlife that consumes these fragments, often ingesting plastic as well, endures significant pain. This highlights the need for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers posed by such activities. (Image: Getty Image Bank/CCL)
SEOUL, Dec. 25 (Korea Bizwire) — Amid a surge in protests following the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol, calls for eco-friendly demonstration practices are gaining momentum in South Korea. Environmental activists and concerned citizens are urging organizers to minimize ecological harm during public rallies.
The turning point came on December 14, when protesters released helium balloons inscribed with “Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol” near the National Assembly after the impeachment vote passed.
While some citizens praised the spectacle, others criticized its environmental impact, highlighting the harm caused by balloons that take years to decompose and contribute to microplastic pollution. Similar practices are already banned in countries like Australia and parts of the U.S., including California and Florida.
In response to public outcry, South Korea’s Cargo Truckers Solidarity Union, which organized the balloon release, pledged to avoid environmentally harmful protest practices in the future. “We are committed to finding eco-conscious methods for expressing dissent,” a union representative said.
The issue extends beyond balloons. Flower wreaths, commonly used for symbolic protests, are also under scrutiny. Critics point out that these wreaths often involve non-recyclable materials like plastic, foam, and imported artificial flowers, exacerbating environmental concerns.
On the morning of December 19, rows of wreaths opposing impeachment, sent by supporters of President Yoon Suk Yeol and members of far-right groups, are displayed in front of the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul. (Yonhap)
Vehicle-based protests, such as slow-moving trucks or buses displaying protest messages, are another contentious issue. These demonstrations contribute to air pollution through idling engines and incomplete combustion, environmental groups warn.
In response, several organizations are adopting greener protest guidelines. For example, participants in a recent rally used recycled milk cartons as candleholders, and some have promoted borrowing reusable items rather than purchasing disposable ones.
“Just as we discourage hate speech at rallies, we will soon provide guidelines for environmentally conscious protests,” said a representative from an activist coalition.
As South Korea navigates political upheaval, activists hope these efforts will set a precedent for sustainable civic engagement while addressing pressing environmental concerns.
A wreath with a protest message against BTS’s agency Hive is placed in front of Hive’s headquarters in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, April 3. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
