Korea: Anti-Torture Exhibition Draws Attention and Exposes the Persecution in Seoul

When Seoul residents of all ages came to Myeong-Dong for shopping or celebrations last weekend, they were surprised to see a depiction of several torture methods that are used against Falun Gong practitioners today in their neighbouring country, China.

On October 16th, Falun Gong practitioners held an anti-torture exhibition at Myeong-Dong, a famous tourist and shopping center in Seoul. The purpose was to clarify the facts about the persecution of Falun Gong in China, so the crowded Myeong-Dong area allowed many people to learn of the atrocities currently occurring in China.

At about 1pm, the practitioners arrived to set up the torture devices and display boards. Though there was a rock and roll band performing loudly across the road, it only reminded the practitioners to maintain righteous thoughts all the times.

The anti-torture exhibition began at 2pm. The students demonstrated the most vicious and cruel tortures using vivid and realistic make-up. Soon, the site was surrounded by hundreds of people. Many people were surprised after they watched the torture methods exhibited by live actors and wanted to hear the truth. Some high school students were very angry that such torture could happen in this "civilised" society, and said they would tell their friends. Cameras flashing constantly, the show became the focus of Meyong-Dong.

Along with the anti-torture exhibition, a signature drive to rescue a Korean practitioner's wife, Ms Gao Chengnu, was also taking place. She was tortured and forcibly interrogated in Jiamosi Forced Labour Institute in Heilongjiang China. Many people signed their names to support the petition and condemned Jiang's regime. To date, over 40,000 signatures have been collected in the drive to rescue Gao.

Tailored for the special characteristics of Korean culture, the show had a host to introduce the show, explain the torture methods, and explain the facts in detail. Many people listened to his introduction and watched the torture-reenactment.

The air was chilly and the practitioners performing the tortures were in thin clothing. The spectators were moved. The practitioners said that by thinking of those Chinese practitioners who were safeguarding their belief and being tortured in jail, they could withstand any pain or cold.

The activity concluded at 6pm. At least a few thousand people learned the truth from the show, including many foreign visitors and some Chinese people. The Korean practitioners will continue to organise anti-torture exhibitions in other major cities in Korea.