Provincial Assembly Member Lee Jaetae Stresses 'Role of Local Governments' at May 18 Forum

"May 18 Is the Root of Regional Identity"
Local Governments Must Take the Lead in Inheriting Its Legacy

Lee Jaetae, a member of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly (Democratic Party of Korea, Naju 3), attended the "45th Anniversary Academic Forum of the May 18 Democratic Uprising" held at the Choi Eui Room of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly on May 20. He emphasized, "Local governments must play a more active role in inheriting and spreading the spirit of May 18."

This forum, co-hosted by the Jeonnam May 18 Democratic Uprising Event Committee and the Honam Historical Society, was held under the theme of "Democracy, Constitution, and Martial Law" and included congratulatory remarks, keynote presentations, and discussions.

Lee Jaetae, a former member of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly who attended the 45th Anniversary Academic Forum of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, emphasized that local governments must take the lead in inheriting the spirit of May 18. Provided by Jeonnam Provincial Assembly

As a panelist, Lee stated, "Local governments are entities that can connect memory and action at a closer distance to local residents than the central government." He added, "May 18 is the collective memory and the core of the identity of Gwangju and Jeonnam, so local governments must fulfill a responsible role in inheriting its legacy."

Lee pointed out, "There are 29 sites related to May 18 scattered throughout Jeonnam, but compared to their value, there are far too few programs in which residents can participate." He proposed, "We should create experiential spaces that connect education, culture, and tourism centered on the Jeonnam May 18 Community Center."

He continued, "The history of May 18 is an important educational asset for conveying the values of democracy and community spirit to future generations." He argued, "Education should not be limited to commemorative days; we must collaborate with local education offices to develop democratic citizenship education curricula and expand to youth forums and theater projects."

He also emphasized, "It is necessary to ensure neutrality so that the spirit of May 18 does not become a subject of partisan conflict." He stressed, "Local governments must take responsible leadership in policy narratives centered on 'inheriting civic spirit.'"