Gwangju City to Conduct Comprehensive Inspection of 29 May 18 Historical Sites by Next Month 1

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Seon-gang] Gwangju Metropolitan City announced on the 21st that it will conduct a thorough inspection of the May 18 Democratic Movement historic sites by the 1st of next month, ahead of the 41st anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Movement.

This inspection will involve cross-checking 29 May 18 historic sites and facilities such as markers throughout the city with district offices to carefully investigate any damage to the facilities, while simultaneously carrying out environmental maintenance in preparation for the upcoming 41st anniversary commemorative events.

Once the inspection of the historic sites is completed, a maintenance plan will be established based on the results, and repairs and maintenance of the facilities will be completed before May, when the 41st anniversary commemorative events will be held.

For historic sites with extensive controlled areas and buildings to be restored to their original state, such as the former National Army Gwangju Hospital, the former site of the 505 Security Unit, and the former Gwangju Red Cross Hospital, patrols will be strengthened together with May 18 organizations and contracted security companies, and additional security equipment will be installed.

Kim Jong-won, head of the May 18 Commemoration Division of the city, said, “Due to COVID-19, various events could not be held last year, but this year, with the end of COVID-19, we hope that many domestic and international visitors will be able to attend the 41st anniversary commemorative events.” He added, “The May 18 historic sites are the property and pride of our citizens of Gwangju, as well as a great asset of the Gwangju Democratization Movement. We hope that all citizens will cherish and watch over these historic sites with interest.”