Emotionally moved Yoon Seok-yeol: "Gwangju's resentment sublimated into liberal democracy and economic prosperity"

Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol, a presidential pre-candidate, is paying respects at the grave of martyr Lee Han-yeol at the 5.18 Cemetery (National Democratic Martyrs' Cemetery) in Buk-gu, Gwangju, on the morning of the 17th.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hyun-joo] Yoon Seok-yeol, a leading opposition presidential candidate and former Prosecutor General, paid tribute at the Gwangju National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery on the 17th, Constitution Day.

After the visit, Yoon told reporters, "I came down thinking that the resentment of Gwangju should be sublimated into liberal democracy and economic prosperity," but added, "While paying my respects, I found that I myself still cannot say that we have overcome the resentment."

He continued, "To honor the blood shed by the martyrs and the sacrifices of our ancestors, I hope that the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions can become a base for advanced industrialization and prosperous economic growth on the universal value of liberal democracy, showing the world a region that is developing," emphasizing, "I will do my best for that."

During his remarks, Yoon coughed several times as if to compose himself emotionally. He wrote in the guestbook, "I will inherit the spirit of 5·18, which was defended by blood for liberal democracy, and achieve unity and prosperity with the people."

Meanwhile, instead of the scheduled meeting with bereaved families, Yoon met with those who were detained during the 5·18 Democratic Movement. Yoon said, "I thought a lot must have changed after coming to Gwangju for the first time in over 20 years, but when I entered the cemetery, I was overwhelmed with emotion," adding, "Actually coming here, it seems that the sorrow and resentment of the past and present are even greater than the future." It was reported that the bereaved families' committee had informed Yoon's side in advance that a meeting was difficult due to internal circumstances.

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