Joint Memorial Service Held for Victims of the Gyeongsan Baksa-ri Incident... Beyond Remembrance, Toward Healing Past Wrongs

The Gyeongsan City Chapter of the Korea Freedom Federation (headed by Lim Jongwan) held a joint memorial service on October 31 at the Baksa-ri Incident Memorial Park in Baksa-ri, Wachon-myeon, Gyeongsan City, to honor the victims.

The event was solemnly conducted with about 100 participants, including bereaved families and heads of organizations and institutions. The program included a progress report, memorial address, tribute speech, flower offering, and incense burning.

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In particular, members of the Yeosu City Chapter attended again this year, following last year, further deepening the significance of the memorial by sharing the painful memories that transcend regions and generations.

The Baksa Village Incident occurred on November 29, 1949, when 38 residents of Baksa-ri lost their lives and 108 houses were burned down during a joint military and police operation, as a result of an attack by hostile forces. The memorial service is held annually around October 31 to commemorate the souls of those who perished and to comfort the bereaved families.

Meanwhile, in October 2022, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission announced the results of its investigation into the Baksa-ri Incident, identified the victims, and recommended an official government apology and restoration of honor. As a result, the memorial service has become more than just a commemoration; it is now a meaningful occasion to reflect on historical responsibility and the healing of past wrongs.

Yoon Heeran, Deputy Mayor of Gyeongsan City, stated, "We will continue to support memorial projects so that the community can remember together, reflecting on the pain of the past and ensuring that the sacrifices of those individuals were not in vain, while upholding the precious values of peace and human rights."

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