[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] This year marks the 41st anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. We once again remember the sacrifices of the democratic spirits who gave their lives for the democratization of the Republic of Korea and offer our deepest condolences.
Forty-one years ago, the citizens of Gwangju did not compromise or kneel down despite the ruthless suppression and violence by the new military regime and martial law troops, as well as systematic concealment. They willingly accepted becoming the foundation for democracy to take root in this land, "leaving behind neither love, honor, nor name."
We fully understand that the freedom and peace we enjoy today could not have been achieved without the sacrifices of these democratic spirits. The Seoul Metropolitan Council Democratic Party has continuously shown interest and effort to honor and inherit the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, including adopting the "Resolution to Designate the March for the Beloved as the May 18 Commemorative Song" in 2016, enacting and revising the "Seoul Metropolitan Democracy Movement Commemoration Ordinance" in 2017, and in 2019 holding the "Condemnation Rally for the Three Members of the Liberty Korea Party Who Made Disparaging Remarks about May 18 and Urging Their Voluntary Resignation" as well as adopting the "Resolution Urging the Resignation of National Assembly Members Kim Jin-tae, Lee Jong-myung, and Kim Soon-rye, Who Distorted the May 18 Democratic Uprising and Denied Democracy and Constitutional Spirit."
The Seoul Metropolitan Council Democratic Party promises to continue its tireless efforts to support the victims of the May 18 Democratic Uprising and to uncover the truth. Furthermore, to build the Republic of Korea that the democratic spirits truly wished for, we will strive with cooperation and communication rather than conflict, with change and innovation that does not settle for the present, and with our best efforts for the stability of people’s livelihoods and the restoration of daily life.
□ Once again, we extend our deepest condolences to the victims and bereaved families of the May 18 Democratic Uprising.
May 17, 2021
Seoul Metropolitan Council Democratic Party Public Relations Deputy Representative Lee Seung-mi
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