Catholics in Seoul have begun a series of public Masses opposing the extension and expansion of nuclear power plants, ahead of the 15th anniversary of the Fukushima disaster. Source: Vatican News.
In the southwest of the Korean peninsula, Catholics have launched the “Gwanghwamun Mass Against Nuclear Power Plants,” a series of public Eucharistic celebrations held from February 13 to March 6, leading up to the 15th anniversary of Japan’s Fukushima nuclear power plant explosion on March 11.
The opening Mass was celebrated in front of the Sejong Centre for the Performing Arts in Jongno-gu, Seoul. The initiative gathers clergy, religious, and lay faithful who are expressing concern over government policies related to nuclear energy.
The intention of the Masses is to pray for the current administration’s decision to halt the extension of ageing nuclear power plants and reconsider projects aimed at constructing new ones.
Fr Yang Ki-seok presided over the opening celebration. In a symbolic gesture, a drum representing radioactive waste was placed in front of the temporary altar.
“This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear power plant explosion, and the current government has chosen a policy of nuclear proliferation,” Fr Yang said.
He criticised the extension of the lifespan of the country’s Kori nuclear power plant and plans to construct additional plants, warning of long-term risks.
“They say it is to supply massive amounts of electricity to AI data centres and semiconductor industrial complexes,” he noted. “But it takes a long time for nuclear power plants to transmit electricity, 14 to 15 years.”
Instead, he proposed environmentally friendly alternatives.
“Rather, solar and wind power, which can be installed and produce electricity in one to three years, are the power sources that will support our country’s industry,” he said.
Among those present was Sung Won-ki of Kangwon National University, who offered a reflection on the dangers of extending the operating life of ageing plants.
Professor Emeritus Sung called for deeper ecological awareness.
“Now we need ecological messengers who will raise awareness of the dangers of nuclear power plants and speak out to protect the dignity of life in the face of a global ecological crisis,” he urged.
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South Korean Catholics call for denuclearisation ahead of Fukushima anniversary (By Fr Mark Robin Destura RCJ, Vatican News)
