Kneeled Kim Jong-in... "I Could Not Strictly Punish Those Making 'Gwangju Outrageous Remarks'"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporters Lee Ji-eun and Lim Chun-han] Kim Jong-in, Emergency Committee Chairman of the United Future Party, knelt down and apologized, saying, "Despite the tragic incident (May 18) that occurred in Gwangju, our party failed to strictly reprimand some misguided individuals who deny it."

On the morning of the 19th, after paying respects at the Gwangju May 18 Democratic Cemetery, Chairman Kim told reporters, "As the person responsible for the party, I sincerely apologize for the wrongful remarks and actions of some party members."

He said, "Despite the tragic incident that occurred in Gwangju, our party failed to strictly reprimand some misguided individuals who deny it. Politicians also showed attitudes that sided with them. Under the name of freedom of expression, one cannot deny an established historical fact."

Chairman Kim stated, "Industrialization and democratization are two precious pillars supporting us, and neither can be simply denied. It is true that considerable sacrifice and pain accompanied such a proud historical process, and those wounds remain, continuing old ideological conflicts and hindering social integration."

He added, "Historical reconciliation can ideally be completed through the perpetrator's profound reflection and confession, but in circumstances where we cannot endlessly expect sincere introspection from those in power, I knelt down representing that era."

Chairman Kim said, "I earnestly ask for forgiveness before the spirits of the May 18 democracy martyrs and the citizens of Gwangju. I am ashamed and deeply sorry. I have come too late."

He continued, "I should have apologized and reflected a hundred times by now, but this is only the first step. I hope my humble step becomes a small opportunity to untie the knots of history and move toward the future, not the past."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.