Min Hyungbae: "Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Investigative Scope to Remove Borders and Nationality Barriers"

Amendment to the Framework Act on Clearing Up Past Incidents Proposed
"Facing the Past and Upholding Human Rights and Peace"

Min Hyungbae, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

Min Hyungbae, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea (representing Gwangsan-eul, Gwangju), announced on August 26 that he has sponsored an amendment to the Framework Act on Clearing Up Past Incidents for Truth and Reconciliation, which would transcend borders and nationalities.

The main focus of the amendment is to expand the investigative scope of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, including all domestic and international incidents as well as foreign victims in the process of uncovering the truth.

Assemblyman Min explained, "Due to the previous interpretation of the law, there were limitations on uncovering the truth behind overseas incidents or cases involving foreign victims," adding, "With this amendment, we can promote universal human rights and enhance Korea's status as a nation that respects human rights in the international community."

Previously, in May 2023, the second Truth and Reconciliation Commission dismissed the requests for truth-finding by five victims and bereaved families of the Ha My Massacre during the Vietnam War. The commission refused to investigate, citing the lack of explicit provisions in the Framework Act regarding foreigners and overseas incidents.

The administrative lawsuits filed by the victims of Ha My Village were also dismissed in both the first and second trials, with the appellate court noting the need to amend the Framework Act.

The Civil Society Network for a Just Resolution of Issues Related to the Vietnam War, a civic group, expressed support for the amendment, stating, "Passing this amendment is essential to prevent the repeated contradiction of refusing investigations solely because they involve foreign countries or foreigners."

Assemblyman Min said, "If the amendment passes, we will be one step closer to uncovering the truth about past incidents," adding, "I hope this will serve as an opportunity for Korea to face its past and move forward as a nation that upholds human rights and peace."