Official Launch of the 42nd Anniversary 5·18 Commemoration Event Committee

‘May, with the Power of Truth! As the Light of the Era!’ Slogan

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] The 42nd Anniversary 5·18 Commemoration Event Committee has officially launched.

According to Gwangju Metropolitan City on the 16th, the 5·18 Event Committee held its launching ceremony at the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery that morning.

The ceremony proceeded in order with a launch declaration, a visit to the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery, and a visit to the National Democratic Martyrs' Cemetery, attended by Lee Yong-seop, Mayor of Gwangju, Kim Yong-jip, Chairperson of the Gwangju City Council, Jang Hwi-guk, Superintendent of Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education, and representatives of May organizations.

The 42nd Anniversary 5·18 Commemoration Event will be held under the slogan "May, with the Power of Truth! The Light of the Era!" and will proceed with key themes including ▲ uncovering the truth of 5·18 and laying the foundation for its inclusion in the preamble of the Constitution ▲ a world of equal human rights without hatred and discrimination ▲ a society where everyone coexists safely ▲ peace on the Korean Peninsula and worldwide, reflecting the demands and tasks of the era.

In particular, Gwangju City plans to promote the event in a way that many citizens participate, including blending with the history of each region and having young people and adolescents who did not experience 5·18 directly plan the event.

However, in preparation for the prolonged COVID-19 situation, non-face-to-face online-centered events are also being prepared.

Through the 5·18 Commemoration Event, the city plans to spread messages of equality and peace to those suffering from war, discrimination, and COVID-19, and to make May Gwangju a beacon of hope once again.

Mayor Lee Yong-seop said, "This 42nd anniversary 5·18 commemoration ceremony should be an event where Gwangju's voice wishing for peace and unity is reflected in the ceremony and side events, delivering a message of peace to the world and uniting citizens with the spirit of Gwangju," adding, "I hope you will join us on the path to opening a greater and stronger era of Gwangju based on the great May spirit."