The Democratic Party on Former President Roh Tae-woo's Obituary: "A Sinner of History... Yet Highly Appreciates the Northern Policy"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] The Democratic Party of Korea stated on the 26th, upon the news of former President Roh Tae-woo's passing, that he was "a culprit in history as a key figure in the December 12 military coup and involved in the forced suppression of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement," but also said, "His Northern Policy during his tenure can be evaluated."

Spokesperson Lee Yong-bin released a statement that afternoon, saying, "Although he was elected through direct popular vote, he ultimately extended military dictatorship and tried to escape his lack of legitimacy through public security rule and the tripartite party collusion, marking him as a dictator," offering this assessment.

Lee added, "However, his Northern Policy during his tenure, the adoption of the Basic Agreement on South-North Relations, and the establishment of diplomatic relations with China can be evaluated," and noted, "After leaving office, he paid the supplementary fines in full over 16 years, and despite mobility difficulties, he visited Gwangju through his children to apologize, showing continuous remorse."

He continued, "While this cannot comfort the spirits of the Gwangju victims who died unjustly, the bereaved families of May 18, and the citizens of Gwangju, his final actions differ from those of Chun Doo-hwan, who still denied historical judgment and refused to apologize or repay supplementary fines," emphasizing this point.

Spokesperson Lee concluded, "We hope that a more rigorous historical evaluation will be conducted to ensure that such mistakes are never repeated in our history," and added, "We pray for the peaceful rest of former President Roh, who ended a life of both glory and disgrace, and sincerely offer our condolences."