Seoul Pride: photo essay

Last Friday the US Supreme Court made a ruling that signalled the end of a long battle for  gay rights, making same-sex marriage a right throughout the country.

Over the weekend, all around the world, Pride marches celebrated the US ruling, sending strong messages to policy- and law makers across the globe about the hunger and demand for similar rights in  many other countries. And while the news was greeted with joy by many, it also sparked fierce waves of opposition and resistance; proving that not even the world’s last remaining superpower can help solve what has been an intractable policy challenge for many decades.

Mariam Koslay was in Seoul, South Korea, where Christian anti-gay advocates clashed with Pride marchers, and put together this exclusive photo gallery for Policy Forum.

Hundreds hit the city centre to begin the 2015 Seoul Gay Pride Parade. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A make up artist applies lipstick on a woman who is wearing a traditional Korean dress. Image by Mariam Koslay.

Christian supporters chant with an enthusiastic spokesperson whilst police barricade the area preventing  those who wish to join the Gay Pride Festival across the street. Image by Mariam Koslay

Hundreds dance on the streets to Pharell's 'Happy' as the parade slowly comes to an end. Image by Mariam Koslay

Two police officers stand outside a booth for protection. Image by Mariam Koslay

Police refuse entry to a man who is attempting to join the parade. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A man waves a rainbow flag over the barricade which separated the pro and anti LGBT supporters. Image by Mariam Koslay.

Musicians play in the middle of the square. Image by Mariam Koslay.

Performers on moving vehicles spray confetti in the air at cheering supporters. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A priest from the Open Doors Metropolitan Community Church holds one end of the banner as he and fellow  volunteers march through the streets. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A group of supporters sign their names on a large rainbow flag to show their backing for LGBT equal rights. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A young boy kneels on the  floor, arms raised, as aggressive chants are screamed across the barricade. Image by Mariam Koslay.

A young girl, with her mother, waits for the live performances on stage to begin as she eats a lollipop. Image by Mariam Koslay.

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As Lady Gaga’s songs filled the streets of central Seoul and the sun beat down on the faces of enthusiastic supporters it was easy to forget that South Korea, one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, is a country still struggling to completely accept the active presence of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community.

The aggressive chants of Korean Cristian supporters and the multitude of offensive billboards did little to dampen spirits as the US Supreme Court’s recent historic decision allowing same-sex couples to wed nationwide was celebrated.

With many expecting the parade to be interrupted by opposing protestors like last year, this year’s event, although tinged with confrontation and hatred, was an inspiring and emotional day.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A make up artist applies lipstick on a woman who is wearing a traditional Korean dress.

Image by Mariam Koslay

Christian supporters chant with an enthusiastic spokesperson while police barricade the area preventing those who wish to join the Gay Pride Festival across the street.

Image by Mariam Koslay

Hundreds dance on the streets to Pharell’s ‘Happy’ as the parade slowly comes to an end.

Image by Mariam Koslay

Two police officers stand outside a booth for protection.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

Police refuse entry to a man who is attempting to join the parade.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A man waves a rainbow flag over the barricade which separated the pro and anti LGBT supporters.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

Musicians play in the middle of the square.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

Performers on moving vehicles spray confetti in the air at cheering supporters.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

Hundreds hit the city centre to begin the 2015 Seoul Gay Pride Parade.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A priest from the Open Doors Metropolitan Community Church holds one end of the banner as he and fellow volunteers march through the streets.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A group of supporters sign their names on a large rainbow flag to show support for LGBT equal rights.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A young boy kneels on the  floor, arms raised, as aggressive chants are screamed across the barricade.

Image by Mariam Koslay.

A young girl, with her mother, waits for the live performances on stage to begin as she eats a lollipop. Image by Mariam Koslay.