[Opinion] Let Us Remember the West Sea Defense Day

In March, when the cold recedes and warm energy fills the air, we encounter an important day that we must remember.

Kim Dae-hong, Welfare Division, Gyeongnam Eastern Veterans Affairs Office.

It is the ‘West Sea Defense Day.’ This day commemorates the 55 heroes who sacrificed their lives defending the West Sea due to North Korea’s armed provocations, such as the Second Battle of Yeonpyeong, the Cheonan ship sinking, and the Yeonpyeong Island shelling. It was established to honor the dedication of the veterans who participated in these battles and to reinforce the public’s awareness of national security.

Designated as a legal memorial day in 2016, ‘West Sea Defense Day’ is observed every year on the fourth Friday of March with various memorial events organized under the supervision of the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, including a government ceremony. It is a meaningful event where the families of the fallen soldiers, veterans, and key government and military officials gather to reaffirm the importance of national security. Additionally, local governments, military units, schools, and civic organizations hold their own memorial events, gradually establishing it as a nationwide commemorative day.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of ‘West Sea Defense Day,’ making it even more important to deeply reflect on its significance. Unlike well-known legal holidays such as March 1st Movement Day and Liberation Day, ‘West Sea Defense Day,’ which was established relatively recently, remains unfamiliar to many citizens. However, this day is not an event for a specific generation or group but a day for all citizens to remember and honor together.

Events like the Cheonan ship sinking and the Yeonpyeong Island shelling should not be seen as mere past incidents but as historical lessons that must continue to be heeded today. While we are busy with our daily lives, we must reflect on whether we are neglecting the dedication of the heroes who sacrificed for the country.

There is a saying, “History that is not remembered repeats itself.” Deeply reflecting on and remembering historical events holds great significance for us. Only a nation that remembers its past and learns from history will have the resilience to overcome national crises and pursue development. Especially, if the spirit of the homeland defense warriors who fought unitedly to overcome national hardships is revived during times of crisis like now, it will unite the people’s strength, and no matter how difficult and challenging the national crisis may be, it will surely be overcome.

Kim Dae-hong, Welfare Division, Gyeongnam Eastern Veterans Office