President Lee Jae-myung stated on August 5 that he will not forget the sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy in South Korea. Speaking at a luncheon marking the 40th anniversary of the National Democratic Families Association (Yugahyeob) at the Blue House, he said, "I will strive to honor your hard work and sacrifices in creating and protecting democracy."
During the event held in the Chungmu Hall, President Lee remarked, "Thanks to the fierce struggles of our parents, families, and many who sacrificed, South Korea is regaining and normalizing its democracy." He added, "While the world you desire and the one the victims longed for may not be perfect, I am doing my best to create it. I regret that I have not been able to do enough as intended. I will listen to your concerns and seek ways to help."
Jang Nam-soo, president of Yugahyeob, called for the swift enactment of the Democracy Activists' Welfare Law and the awarding of medals to over 100 martyrs who have not yet received honors among the 136 recognized. He noted, "The law for the welfare of democracy activists has been proposed in the National Assembly for over 20 years but has yet to be finalized."
Choi Jong-soon, brother of the late martyr Choi Woo-hyuk, expressed concern that key documents related to state violence might be destroyed following the disbandment of the Army's Counterintelligence Command. He urged the release of materials related to the National Intelligence Service, the National Police Agency, and counterintelligence.
Many members also requested the prompt establishment of the Democracy Activists' Law, as well as the clarification of the Yongsan tragedy and the withdrawal of state appeals in military death cases.
Jeong Jeong-won, mother of martyr Kim Yoon-ki, expressed gratitude, saying, "I learned late that President Lee attended my son's funeral in Seongnam in 1989 and carried his coffin."
Listening attentively, President Lee promised, "I will ensure that members of Yugahyeob will not have to wander the streets again, and I will do my utmost to dismantle the tent in front of the National Assembly."
Yugahyeob, formed by the families of democracy martyrs who sacrificed their lives fighting against military dictatorship in the 1970s and 1980s, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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