Gwangju and South Jeolla Civil Society: "Ahn Changho Is an Accomplice to Insurrection... Human Rights Commission Chair Must Resign"

Press Conference to Condemn Chairperson Ahn Scheduled at May 18 Memorial Culture Center
Ahead of the 77th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10

Civil society groups in Gwangju have called for the resignation of Ahn Changho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, amid controversy over his perceived protection of former President Yoon Sukyeol. On December 10, as the 77th anniversary ceremony of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights takes place, these groups are holding a press conference in front of the May 18 Memorial Culture Center in Seo-gu, Gwangju, to demand accountability.

Ahn Changho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, is presenting a proposal related to the 2026 budget plan at the plenary meeting of the Steering Committee held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 18th of last month. Photo by Yonhap News

More than 90 civic organizations from Gwangju and South Jeolla Province issued a joint statement the previous day, saying, "Since Chairperson Ahn took office on September 6 last year, we have witnessed a serious regression and crisis at the National Human Rights Commission." They criticized, "The attendance of Chairperson Ahn, who has faithfully served as a shield for the power that incited insurrection, at the ceremony is an insult to both human rights and the citizens."

The groups raised issues with the Human Rights Commission’s plenary decision in February this year to adopt a recommendation to guarantee the defense rights of former President Yoon Sukyeol. They pointed out, "This decision, which was heavily skewed toward defending a particular power, caused the commission to lose its independence and role." They also criticized the commission’s absence from both the Seoul Queer Culture Festival and anti-LGBTQ group events in April, saying, "It amounts to abandoning the protection of minority rights."

The organizations stated, "Chairperson Ahn’s actions have undermined the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Movement and weakened the identity of the Human Rights Commission," and insisted, "The government should immediately dismiss the chairperson, and the commission must undertake responsible reforms."

On December 10, the groups plan to demand at the site: ▲ the removal of Chairperson Ahn from his position ▲ a public apology and resignation from the commissioners ▲ and the establishment of systems to restore the commission’s independence.

On May 18 this year, Chairperson Ahn visited the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery to attend the 45th anniversary ceremony of the May 18 Democratic Movement, but was unable to stay at the site due to protests from citizens.