Today, the twentieth queer culture festival kicked off in Seoul... calling for an end to discrimination against sexual minorities.
However, religious groups also staged a counter-rally opposing the event.
Our Yoon Jung-min was their and files us this report.
Calling for an 'end to discrimination' and 'equal rights for sexual minorities',... hundreds of people gathered in front of Seoul Plaza on Saturday... to attend the 2019 Seoul Queer Parade, marking its 20th anniversary.
Holding rainbow flags and dressed in colorful shirts which symbolize LGBT communities,... the participants gathered to raise social awareness of sexual minorities.
During the event, they called for changes to South Korean society and its collective mindset... to end discrimination against the LGBT community.
"Positively surprised how many people have come here. I like the feeling how everybody can be themselves here. I like how people can connect on this level."
On the other hand, protesters from religious groups held a rally on the same day in Seoul,... saying the parade should not be held in a public space,... in the view of children and the elderly.
"We believe in the union of men and women based on the teachings of the Bible. It's natural, and we oppose any violations against this natural order."
"The clash between those calling for more personal freedom regarding sexual orientation and those opposed to it on religious grounds remains a thorny issue here, just like in many other countries worldwide.
Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News."