Jangheung's Intention, Accelerating the Eradication of Pro-Japanese Residues

Investigation of Pro-Japanese Residues Including Road Name and Place Name Changes, Cultural Heritage
Three-Stage Process: Receipt, Investigation, and Clearance of Pro-Japanese Residues Initiated

Jangheung Donghak Peasant Revolution Memorial Hall Exterior (Photo by Jang Heung-gun)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Seo Young-seo] Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do announced on the 1st that the TF team organized to eliminate pro-Japanese remnants will begin full-scale activities starting this month.

Marking the 110th anniversary of the martyrdom of patriot Ahn Jung-geun, Jangheung-gun, which declared 2020 as the "Year of Visiting Haedongsa," decided to investigate the remaining pro-Japanese remnants in the region and correct them.

This is a measure to promote the historical value of Haedongsa, the only place in the Republic of Korea enshrining the memorial tablet and portrait of Ahn Jung-geun, and to strengthen the image of "Uihyang Jangheung" (the hometown of righteous spirits).

To this end, the "Jangheung-gun Pro-Japanese Remnants Elimination TF Team" was formed, consisting of the head of the Planning and Public Relations Office as the general leader, two civilian members, and six administrative members.

On the 28th of last month, the first discussion was held in the county office situation room regarding the direction of eliminating pro-Japanese remnants, the scope of investigation, and methods.

The investigation scope includes administrative district names during the Japanese colonial period, pro-Japanese related records, buildings, changes in road names and place names, cultural heritage, and cultural assets.

The TF team will begin a one-month first phase of publicity and data collection related to the elimination of pro-Japanese remnants starting from the 1st.

For pro-Japanese related materials known by local residents, voluntary reporting will be accepted. The submitted materials will be classified by issue, and depending on the volume, a decision will be made whether to proceed independently or in parallel with commissioned research.

Afterwards, the authenticity will be verified through expert review. Classification will be done by combining independent efforts and commissioned research, and authenticity will be determined based on clear evidence.

During the second phase from the 1st of next month to August 31st, a full survey of the current status of pro-Japanese remnants will be conducted, followed by gathering expert opinions from September to decide on elimination methods, determine whether to preserve or remove, install guide signs, and carry out follow-up measures.

County Governor Jeong Jong-soon said, "Jangheung-gun is historically a center of anti-Japanese resistance and a hometown that produced many righteous militias," adding, "We will eliminate the pro-Japanese remnants remaining in the region to achieve regional development based on correct history and culture."