Human Rights Commissioner Choi Young-ae "Mourning Late Sergeant Byeon Hee-su... Must Be Protected from Hatred and Discrimination"

Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] On the 4th, Choi Young-ae, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, issued a statement mourning the death of the late Sergeant Byeon Hee-soo.

Chairperson Choi said, "I pray for the repose of Sergeant Byeon, who underwent gender transition during military service and died while confronting deep-rooted discrimination and hatred, and I extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family. The efforts of the deceased, who only wanted to fulfill their duties as a soldier, will be remembered forever," expressing her tribute.

Chairperson Choi added, "The shock and sorrow over the death of Kim Ki-hong, who passed away on the 24th of last month while standing against prejudice and hatred toward sexual minorities, have not yet faded, and I am deeply saddened to hear of another such loss. I hope other sexual minorities will not lose courage and hope, but instead unite and endure together," she urged.

She continued, "To prevent such sorrow from recurring and to ensure that all members of our society are protected from hatred and discrimination and can live equally, I once again urge the National Assembly to promptly initiate discussions on the enactment of the Equality Act."

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