Hello iReport!

I'm a Canadian working in Seoul, very near this evenings protests over the importing of U.S Beef, and the broader discontent with the recently elected President Lee.

I went down to see for myself and took these photos.

I'm neither here nor there on the issue...but I can tell you from what I witnessed it was a peaceful, albeit spirited, demonstration.

Citizens from all walks of Korean life, and people with all kinds of motivation, were in attendance. Including union groups, families, young couples holding hands, and students sharing a few beers.

Personally, after living in and out of Korea for seven years, I would say more than anything it's a celebration of democracy, freedom of speech, and the Korean spirit. People here take pride in voicing their opinions and holding their elected officials accountable for descisions they make.

At this moment I can still hear the chants, songs, cheers and noise from my Hotel room window in Jong-ro. cheers!

Kind regards,

Boyd

ps. I haven't seen that many people gathered in the downtown core since World Cup 2002!