In a powerful display of solidarity, a Korean individual was filmed standing in support of Israel during severe winter conditions, with temperatures reaching -20°C. The video, which has circulated on social media, shows the supporter braving extreme cold to express support for the Jewish state.
This act of solidarity reflects a broader pattern of pro-Israel sentiment within certain segments of South Korean society, particularly among evangelical Christian communities. While South Korea maintains a balanced diplomatic stance toward the Middle East conflict, visible support for Israel has emerged from religious and conservative political circles.
Korean-Israeli Relations and Public Support#
South Korea has maintained diplomatic relations with Israel since the early 1960s, with growing cooperation in technology, defense, and innovation sectors. However, public expressions of support like this winter demonstration represent a specific segment of Korean society rather than the broader population.
According to recent analyses, approximately 30% of South Koreans identify as Christians, with many evangelicals viewing support for Israel through a biblical lens. This religious perspective has translated into organized advocacy, including the creation of Korea’s first Holocaust Memorial Museum in Paju, spearheaded by Christian educators and activists.
The Israeli flag has become increasingly visible at conservative and right-wing rallies in Seoul, often appearing alongside pro-American and anti-communist messaging. While these demonstrations are not exclusively focused on Middle East politics, they reflect a growing identification between certain Korean political movements and Israel’s position on the international stage.
A Complex Picture of Solidarity#
Public opinion in South Korea toward the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is nuanced and divided along ideological lines. Recent polling shows that conservatives, Protestants, and Catholics are significantly more likely to sympathize with Israel and view its military actions as justified self-defense. Meanwhile, progressive and liberal Koreans tend to express greater compassion for Palestinians and criticism of Israeli military operations.
Despite these divisions, acts like standing in freezing weather to show support demonstrate the depth of commitment among pro-Israel Koreans. Such demonstrations, though representing a minority viewpoint within broader Korean society, highlight the passionate advocacy emerging from religious and ideological convictions.
The winter solidarity action captured on video serves as a reminder of the global nature of support networks that exist around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, extending even to individuals willing to endure physical hardship to express their political and religious beliefs.
Source: YouTube
