Includes Support for the Operation of the 5·18 Ginyeom Foundation
[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] Congressman Min Hyung-bae (The Democratic Party of Korea, Gwangsan-gu Eul, Gwangju) announced that the partial amendment to the "Act on Compensation for Persons Related to the May 18 Democratic Movement" was passed on the 12th as a committee alternative by the National Assembly's Public Administration and Security Committee.
The amendment mainly expands the scope of persons related to the May 18 Democratic Movement, which was previously limited to those who died, went missing, or were disabled.
If the amendment passes the plenary session, sexual violence victims, wanted/arrested/detained persons, etc., will be newly included as related persons.
Common-law spouses will also be included in the scope of bereaved families. Since sexual violence victims are included as related persons, a provision was newly established to allow the operation of counseling and treatment programs for the physical and mental recovery of victims.
In addition, the definition of the May 18 Democratic Movement was aligned with the definition under the May 18 Special Act. A special provision was also prepared to allow claims for criminal compensation within one year after the amendment's enforcement, even if the criminal compensation claim period has passed.
Along with this, the basis for supporting the expenses of the May 18 Memorial Foundation was also included. If the bill finally passes the plenary session, direct support from the government will become possible. It is expected that a more stable and systematic project to inherit the spirit of May 18 will be promoted.
Congressman Min said, "I expect this to contribute to the restoration of honor and welfare improvement of those related to May 18, and I will strive to supplement the parts not included among the contents originally contained in the amendment."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
