Lee Jaemyung: "A Flame of Hope in Gwangju"... The Voices of 10,000 Citizens

Gwangju-in Forum Calls for Protection of the Constitution and End to Rebellion on the 3rd

Lee Jaemyung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, emphasized that "the Republic of Korea stands at a crossroads of great challenges and change," and stressed, "We must once again ignite the flame of hope in Gwangju." Lee called for solidarity and action from the citizens of Gwangju to end rebellion and protect the Constitution, declaring, "We will stand together until the end for a stronger democracy."

On the afternoon of the 3rd, at the Kim Daejung Convention Center in Gwangju, Jeon Hyunhee, the Supreme Member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is reading the congratulatory message from Lee Jaemyung, the party leader, at the "Gwangju People Forum for Ending the Civil War and Strengthening Democracy." Captured from Gwangju Jjinsim YouTube.

On the afternoon of the 3rd, Lee made these remarks in a congratulatory speech at the 'Gwangju-in Forum for Ending Rebellion and Building a Stronger Democracy' held at the Kim Daejung Convention Center in Gwangju.

Lee stated, "Citizens of Gwangju must stand at the forefront to protect democracy and create a country where the people are the true owners," and promised, "The Democratic Party of Korea will move forward with the citizens of Gwangju toward a fairer and safer nation, and a stronger democracy." He added, "I hope that the cry that began in Gwangju will become the force that opens a new future for Korea."

On this day, about 10,000 citizens attended the forum, holding cheering sticks and placards with slogans such as 'Change of Government,' 'Protect the Constitution,' and 'Impeach Yoon Sukyeol.' They chanted, "Impeach Yoon Sukyeol, the ringleader of constitutional destruction and rebellion," and "End the rebellion, protect the Constitution, and establish a democratic government."

The inauguration ceremony began with a performance by the three-member male popera group 'Bigman Singers,' followed by the introduction of forum executives and the reading of the founding declaration. Hwang Hyunpil, head of the History Correction Research Association, gave a lecture presenting ways to overcome the national crisis and restore democracy.

On the afternoon of the 3rd, more than 10,000 citizens attending the "Gwangju Forum for Ending Civil War and Stronger Democracy" held at the Kim Daejung Convention Center in Gwangju waved cheering sticks. Photo by Song Bohyun

In the '3.3 Gwangju Declaration' announced that day, the Gwangju-in Forum stated, "Remembering Gwangju in May 1980, which fought against ruthless military violence, we must gather our strength and wisdom to completely impeach the Yoon Sukyeol administration, end the rebellion, uphold constitutional values, and build a stronger democracy."

Kang Jungchae, former president of Chonnam National University, Noh Dongil, CEO of Gwangju FC, and Moon Seokhwan, chairman of the Park Kwanhyun Memorial Foundation, were appointed as standing representatives of the Gwangju-in Forum. Kim Bogon, chairman of DK Industry, and Park Shinae, president of the Gwangju Daycare Association, were appointed as co-representatives. Gwangju Mayor Kang Gijung, Dong-gu District Chief Lim Taek, Seo-gu District Chief Kim Ikang, and other district chiefs in the Gwangju area were also appointed as advisory committee members.

Mr. Park, who attended the event, said, "We must start again from Gwangju to protect democracy," and added, "Everyone must come together to take the lead in protecting the Constitution." Another citizen emphasized, "Gwangju has always been the starting point of democracy," and added, "Even now, as back then, everyone must unite as one."