Governor Kim Taeheum Expresses Frustration Over Divisions Surrounding Liberation Day

At the 79th Liberation Day Ceremony: "My Heart Feels Heavy as the Liberation Association, Government, and Opposition Remain Divided"

Kim Taeheum, Governor of Chungnam, expressed his frustration over the division surrounding the 79th Liberation Day celebration.

At the 79th Liberation Day celebration held at the Chungnam Provincial Government on the 15th, Governor Kim stated, "The indomitable spirit of independence is the foundation of today's Republic of Korea," and added, "I extend my deepest respect and gratitude to the patriotic forebears, independence activists, and their families who devoted themselves to passing on a free nation."

He continued, "Today is a joyful day as we have regained our sovereignty and been liberated, but I feel a heavy heart and frustration," and said, "Seeing the Liberation Association, the government, and the opposition party divided over the Liberation Day celebration, I feel completely stifled as a governor and as a politician."

He further expressed concern, saying, "We should always remember the meaning of liberation and, moving beyond ideology, all citizens should unite as one. However, as even stories about secret agents are being brought up, it seems things are going too far."

Governor Kim emphasized, "If we cannot overcome division and conflict, we cannot move forward," and added, "The core of all state affairs is not ideology but the people, and with the people and national interest as our top priorities, Chungnam will pave the way for the country's future."

Previously, controversy arose over the historical views of Kim Hyungseok, the newly appointed director of the Independence Hall of Korea, leading to, for the first time since the founding of the Liberation Association in 1965, the government, the Liberation Association, political circles, and independence movement organizations each holding separate ceremonies for the 79th Liberation Day celebration.