Silent tribute only amid opposition to 5·18 cemetery visit... Yoon Seok-yeol "Will not forget the spirit of May"

"Paying Tribute to the Spirits in Our Hearts"

People Power Party's presidential candidate Yoon Seok-yeol is paying respects at the National May 18th Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju, on the afternoon of the 6th. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hyun-joo] On the 6th, Yoon Seok-yeol, the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, visited the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju, but turned back after offering only a silent prayer without incense offering.

On that day, Yoon stopped about 30 meters in front of the memorial tower due to protests from social and civic groups opposing the memorial service and offered a silent prayer. When Yoon visited Gwangju last November, he also did not offer incense. After visiting the cemetery, Yoon told reporters, "Although I could not offer incense in front, I sincerely paid my respects in my heart to the spirits of the 5·18 victims."

He continued, "I think this is my third or fourth time visiting Gwangju, but twice I was unable to offer incense. However, the spirit of May, which protected democracy with blood, is something that not only I but all the people of our country will never forget."

He added, "Democracy and the spirit of May are not just about the spirit of resistance but symbolize national unity. When officially visiting Gwangju, I believe it is the right duty of a politician to visit the democratic cemetery, pay respects to the symbols of liberal democracy and national unity, and once again straighten one’s mindset."

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