E2024-G090

Women and the May 18 Democratic Uprising

Narrative

Women played a key role in the May 18 Democratic Uprising. In particular, the Gwangju YWCA, which had already supported the pro-democracy movement, became the base for the resistance activities. The YWCA, led by its president Jo A-ra (1912-2003), was joined by other groups, such as the women's Songbaekhoe Association. Women supported the uprising in many ways, by preparing food, making leaflets and spreading news, caring for the wounded, and recovering bodies. Many female students directly participated in the demonstrations as well.