Controversy Continues Over Emergency Martial Law and Attorney Kim Gyeri, Known for 'Gye Mong Ryeong'

Kim Youngrok Expresses Concern Over Truth and Distortion
Calls for Dismissal of Yeosun Incident Truth Investigation Report Planning Team

Kim Youngrok Jeonnam Governor

Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeollanam-do, has urged the dismissal of lawyer Kim Gyeri from the Yeosun Incident Truth Investigation Report Planning Team, stating that President Yoon Sukyeol's declaration of martial law was described as an "enlightenment order" by Kim, who defended martial law. Kim Youngrok pointed out that Kim Gyeri's past remarks and actions are inappropriate for handling the noble significance of the Yeosun Incident.

In a statement released on this day, Governor Kim said, "The Yeosun Incident Truth Investigation Report is not a simple administrative document, but a grave national task that contains the pain and sorrow of the victims and their families for 77 years and reveals historical truth." He added, "For a proper investigation and the full restoration of honor to the victims and their families, I once again strongly urge the immediate dismissal of lawyer Kim Gyeri and the complete reorganization of the entire planning team with experts who possess fair and balanced historical perspectives."

The "Yeosun Incident Special Act" was enacted in 2021 through bipartisan agreement in the National Assembly, as a noble promise to heal Yeosun's long-standing pain and wipe away the tears of victims and their families, gaining national consensus.

However, concerns about historical distortion arose as the planning team, launched in December 2023, was composed of politically biased individuals.

In response, the Yeosun Incident Victims' Association, Jeollanam-do, and political circles have continuously requested the reorganization of the planning team.

In December of last year, the National Assembly passed an amendment to the "Yeosun Incident Special Act" and included an additional opinion stating that political neutrality, objectivity, and a balanced historical perspective must be prioritized when forming the planning team.

Nevertheless, lawyer Kim, who is currently serving as a member, sparked controversy by defending martial law during the final arguments of President Yoon Sukyeol's impeachment trial on February 25, describing martial law as an "enlightenment order to awaken the people."

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