Will South Korean President Deliver Justice for Yeosu-Suncheon Victims on Their 77th Anniversary?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On the 77th anniversary of the Yeosu-Suncheon incident, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung pledges justice for victims of government violence. His commitment to uncover the truth and restore honor promises a significant step towards healing historical wounds. This poignant moment reminds us of the importance of accountability and remembrance in shaping a just society.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee's pledge to seek justice for the Yeosu-Suncheon victims.
- Commitment to uncover the full truth of the incident.
- Importance of acknowledging past state violence.
- Significant historical context of the 1948 uprising.
- Government's initiative to restore honor to victims.
Seoul, Oct 19 (NationPress) South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung expressed his heartfelt condolences on Sunday for the victims of the government's severe crackdown during a military uprising.
On the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the infamous Yeosu-Suncheon incident, Lee vowed to pursue justice for the civilians who lost their lives.
"As president, I will hold myself accountable and take all necessary steps to ensure that there will never again be innocent victims of state violence," he emphasized.
He reiterated the government's commitment to uncover the complete truth behind the incident and to restore the dignity of the civilian victims, estimated to be as high as 11,000, according to the Yonhap news agency.
"Rectifying history and achieving justice is a task that must be pursued, no matter how long it may take," he stated.
The uprising began on October 19, 1948, when approximately 2,000 leftist soldiers in Yeosu, located 455 kilometers south of Seoul, revolted after rejecting orders to relocate to Jeju Island to suppress leftist protests against the newly established South Korean government.
This military revolt, occurring amid the ideological divisions following the Korean Peninsula's liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, rapidly escalated into a large-scale uprising as civilians from Yeosu and nearby Suncheon joined forces with the soldiers. A tragic massacre of civilians ensued during the government's crackdown on the anti-government protests.
In 2021, the National Assembly enacted a special bill to investigate the crackdown and restore dignity to its victims.
Additionally, Seoul's chief envoy to Tokyo, Lee Hyuk, announced on Saturday that South Korea plans to host a memorial ceremony next month to honor Korean victims who were subjected to forced labor at a Japanese mine during the colonial era.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize President Lee's commitment to justice for the victims of the Yeosu-Suncheon incident. This approach reflects a dedication to acknowledging past wrongs while fostering a culture of accountability that can guide future governance. The journey towards historical rectification is crucial for national healing and unity.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Yeosu-Suncheon incident?
The Yeosu-Suncheon incident was a military uprising in 1948 involving left-leaning soldiers who protested against orders to suppress dissent in Jeju Island, leading to a tragic crackdown resulting in civilian casualties.
How many victims were there?
It is estimated that up to 11,000 civilians were killed during the government's violent response to the uprising.
What measures is the government taking for justice?
President Lee Jae Myung has pledged to investigate the incident and restore the honor of the victims, ensuring that such state violence does not occur again.
When did the uprising occur?
The uprising began on October 19, 1948.
What is the significance of this anniversary?
The 77th anniversary serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and recognition of past injustices in South Korea's history.
