'78th Anniversary of Liberation' Kim Dong-yeon: "Yoon Government Grants Immunity for Irresponsibility Including Japan's Radioactive Water Discharge"

Kim Dong-yeon, Governor of Gyeonggi Province

Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon asserted on the 15th that "at the upcoming Korea-US-Japan summit, our government must raise a clear voice opposing Japan's discharge of contaminated water from Fukushima."

In his speech commemorating the 78th Liberation Day, Governor Kim pointed out, "Japan is trying to treat contaminated water by the cheapest method while ignoring the concerns of the international community. There is neither respect for neighboring countries nor responsibility toward future generations."

He continued, "Our government is giving a free pass to Japan's irresponsibility toward the past and present under the guise of a 'future-oriented Korea-Japan relationship,' and selectively showing tolerance and acceptance toward Japan is clearly an 'abdication of responsibility.'"

He also added, "This year marks the 30th anniversary of the 'Kono Statement' and the 25th anniversary of the 'Kim Dae-jung-Obuchi Joint Declaration.' The Japanese government must demonstrate practical measures to support the apologies it has expressed several times," emphasizing, "It must show an example to the international community through reflection and remorse."

Governor Kim diagnosed the disruptions at the World Scout Jamboree and the lowest economic growth rate among OECD countries as unprecedented crises caused by a leadership crisis.

He particularly stressed, "Only by restoring leadership of unity, responsibility, and leading by example can the Republic of Korea move forward unwaveringly toward greater dynamism, greater inclusion, and a greater future," expressing concern that "although Korea has now risen to the ranks of advanced countries economically and culturally, social conflicts and political divisions remain. National dignity and leadership are regressing significantly."

Furthermore, he promised, "On the path toward a greater Korea, Gyeonggi Province, the center of change and opportunity, will stand at the forefront."

On the same day at 11 a.m., Gyeonggi Province held the 78th Liberation Day celebration at the Gyeonggi Hall of the Gyeonggi Economic Science Promotion Agency, attended by Governor Kim, Hwang Deok-ho, head of the Gyeonggi Branch of the Liberation Association, city and county branch heads, Yeom Jong-hyun, chairman of the Gyeonggi Provincial Council, and over 400 related organizations and veterans group leaders within the province.

This in-person celebration event was held for the first time in four years since 2019.

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