Daniel Lindemann Presents German Unification

Gangbuk-gu Launches Non-Face-to-Face Humanities Lectures Explaining Anecdotes of German Division, Pros and Cons of Unification... Available Anytime on Gangbuk-gu YouTube Channel

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Gangbuk-gu (District Mayor Park Kyum-soo) held a non-face-to-face humanities lecture under the theme "A Story of Peaceful Unification Told by a German."

This lecture was pre-recorded at the outdoor yard of Bonghwanggak in Uidong. Bonghwanggak is an educational facility established by Son Byeong-hui, a leader of Cheondogyo, to train Cheondogyo leaders. It is recognized as the birthplace of the March 1st Movement. In 1969, it was designated as Seoul City Tangible Cultural Property No. 2.

The lecturer was Daniel Lindemann, a German-born broadcaster. Lindemann explained anecdotes and historical backgrounds related to the division of Germany. He vividly narrated the reasons why East and West Germany were divided, the process of the Berlin Wall being erected and eventually falling. He also introduced the pros and cons of unification and the changes in people's lives after the Berlin Wall fell.

Along with this, Lindemann pointed to Ostpolitik (Eastern Policy) as a policy that had a significant impact on German unification. Ostpolitik refers to all diplomatic activities aimed at normalizing relations with Eastern Bloc countries. He said, "Division and unification ultimately come down to human stories. I believe that cultural and economic exchanges gradually preceded, allowing the two to merge into one nation," adding, "The current development of Germany was fostered by unification as a foundation."

More detailed stories about unification told by a German youth can be viewed anytime on the Gangbuk-gu YouTube channel.

Park Kyum-soo, Mayor of Gangbuk-gu, said, "By listening to Germany's experience of the pain of division, we can understand what preparations and mindset are necessary for inter-Korean unification," and added, "I hope many people interested in peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula will watch."