"Pausing Campaign to Reflect on Safe Schools"... Kim Daejung Mourns Gwangju Knife Tragedy

On Children's Day, a day that should be filled with the bright laughter of children, a heartbreaking tragedy occurred in the heart of downtown Gwangju, where a teenage high school girl lost her life in a knife attack. Kim Daejung, prospective candidate for superintendent of education for Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Metropolitan City, immediately suspended all campaign activities and expressed deep condolences to the student who lost her life.

On May 5, Kim posted on his Facebook page, saying, "Early this morning in Gwangju, a student tragically passed away in an unfortunate incident. I offer my deepest condolences," and added, "I sincerely extend my sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, and the school community."

Kim Daejung, preliminary candidate for Superintendent of Education of Jeonnam Gwangju Metropolitan City Integration

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At the beginning of his message, Kim cited the results of a recent survey conducted by the Elementary School Teachers’ Union to remind the public of the significance of Children's Day. He emphasized, "Among the elementary students who responded, 44.1% said that the thing they most wanted to do on Children's Day was to spend time with their families, such as traveling or dining out. The most desired gift was also 'time spent with family,' which was chosen by 28.2% of respondents."

Kim especially pointed out that what children truly desire is not grand gifts, but rather "a safe and warm embrace from adults," expressing his sorrow over the situation.

Kim went on to redefine the role of schools. He stated, "School is the place where children spend the most time," and added, "Before being a place of learning, school should be a place to live, where children can spend each day without fear."

Kim declared, "I will create schools where children feel loved, where they know they are not alone in the face of danger, and where they can reach out for help first when their hearts are hurt." He continued, "Creating such schools is the most precious promise that adults can give children on Children's Day." He reiterated his condolences by saying, "I will make today as safe and warm as possible for every child," and added, "I am pausing my campaign for a moment to reflect on the need for safe schools."

Previously, at 12:11 a.m. on May 5, a 17-year-old female high school student, referred to as A, was stabbed by an unidentified man on the sidewalk near Nambu University in Wolgye-dong, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju. She was taken to the hospital but ultimately passed away. A male student of the same age, referred to as B, was also injured by the knife while rushing to help after hearing A's screams and is currently receiving treatment.

On Children's Day, which should be the happiest and safest day, a 17-year-old girl lost her life on a cold street before she even had the chance to bloom. This incident serves as a painful reminder of the fragile safety net in our society and leaves adults with the heavy responsibility of protecting the ordinary daily lives of children.

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