Azerbaijan's Black January and Korea's March 1st Movement

Choe Chong-dae

On Jan. 20, Azerbaijan marked the 34th anniversary of a somber chapter in its history: the Soviet Army's military invasion and civilian bloodshed in Baku. In response to growing national independence movements, the Soviet leadership dispatched around 26,000 troops in an operation ominously named "Strike." This forceful response aimed to suppress the burgeoning Azerbaijani nonviolent independence movement, fueled by discriminatory policies, territorial claims and mass deportations of ethnic Azerbaijanis. The resulting massacre was a blatant violation of international law and the Soviet Constitution.

On Jan. 13, 1990, during a mass rally in Baku, Azerbaijani opposition leaders and citizens called passionately for a referendum on Azerbaijan's secession from the Soviet Union. Incendiary reports of Azerbaijanis being attacked in Karabakh heightened public outrage. Subsequently, the events of Jan. 20, 1990, known as Black January, underscored the tragedy of Baku, reflecting the struggle for Azerbaijani sovereignty amid broader tensions within the collapsing Soviet Union. This midnight incident, perpetrated brutally by Soviet military forces, resulted in 137 fatalities, 611 injuries, around 1,000 unlawful arrests and five missing individuals. It stands as a stark reminder of the human cost of political power plays and the lengths authoritarian regimes will go to maintain control.

On this anniversary, let us stand to reminisce, reflect upon and comprehend the intricate fabric of history, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who forged a route to independence amidst turbulent times. In collective remembrance, may we strive for a world where the pursuit of sovereignty is met with respect for human rights and the principles of justice, recognizing that history always serves as an accurate arbiter of righteousness.

Black January stands as a poignant testament to the cultural pride and heroism ingrained in Azerbaijani history — a moment of resisting brutal attacks on freedom and independence, paving the way for the national liberation of Azerbaijan.

Consequently, Azerbaijan restored its independence in October 1991. It declared itself the political and legal successor of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (1918-1920). This historic event led to the revival of the democratic, secular and multicultural statehood traditions inherited from the Democratic Republic. In a short period of time, Azerbaijan was consolidated into a modern and stable state owning its strong voice in international affairs under the outstanding leadership of its fourth and current President, Ilham Aliyev, who was overwhelmingly reelected in the recent election.

Reflecting on the events of Black January brings to mind Korea's March 1st Independence Movement of 1919, which aimed to restore Korean sovereignty amidst Japanese colonial occupation (1910-1945). The Independence Movement stands as a pivotal moment in Korean history, during which the Korean people fervently declared their independence throughout the nation. This nationwide nonviolent movement not only heightened awareness of humanitarian ideals but also underscored a guideline of conduct centered on principles of peace.

While historical circumstances and the degree to which victims differ, both events and their memorial celebrations share remarkable similarities, serving as powerful expressions of collective will to resist oppression and strive for national liberation. Later, these two events paved the way for the restoration of their sovereignty and the establishment of democratic governments. Their sacred spirit still resonates in our hearts, vivid and alive, a lasting memorial that persists to this very moment. The memory of the heroic martyrs of the Azerbaijani people, sacrificing their lives for independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, resonates with the fallen heroes of Korea's patriots in their struggle for independence against the Japanese colonial regime. This shared valor binds these nations in a common pursuit of freedom.

In the history of every nation, an evocative unfolds, marked by the sacrifices of its people in the pursuit of sovereignty. Reflecting on the resilience demonstrated by the people of Azerbaijan and Korea in the face of adversity, their shared history of struggle has not only shaped their national identities but also instilled a sense of hope for a better future.

Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and director of the Korean-Swedish Association.