Korean students defend Hong Kong against Chinese students

Students at Myongji University support the cause of the former British colony. Those involved in the brawl were released after brief questioning by police. Acts of vandalism have been reported at Seoul National University.


Seoul (AsiaNews) – A group of Chinese students at Myongji University in Seoul attacked South Korean students who back Hong Kong’s cause against Beijing's interference.

Although already present in South Korean society, this is the first time that such a situation has resulted in physical violence.

After Seodaemun police were called in to break up the fight, the students involved voluntarily stopped. Following brief questioning, police released them.

The row broke out around 8pm Tuesday, sparked by messages posted on a wall supporting protests in Hong Kong where local pro-Beijing authorities and various civil society groups have been at loggerheads for several months.

This is not the first time that Chinese and South Korean students have clashed. Similar messages of support have been vandalised – possibly by Chinese students – at the Seoul National University.

According to Yonhap, pro-Honk Kong messages were covered with other messages in poorly written Korean (pictured) saying "Hong Kong is none of your business" and "Shut your mouth".

The problem is not unique to South Korea. In recent months, thousands of Chinese have demonstrated in Canada, Australia and Great Britain in favour of freedom in Hong Kong, facing off slogans and intimidation by pro-Beijing groups.