Sokcho City to Open Fact-Finding Application Window from the 26th

Resumption of Truth and Reconciliation Commission Activities
Nationwide Efforts to Clear Up Past Incidents in Full Swing
City to Focus Guidance and Support on Restoring Individual Honor,
Building Social Trust and Reconciliation

In light of the revision of the Framework Act on Clearing up Past Incidents for Truth and Reconciliation, Sokcho City in Gangwon-do will begin accepting applications for fact-finding starting on February 26.

Poster for Truth Investigation Application Submission. Provided by Sokcho-si.

Along with this, the activities of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will resume, and work related to clearing up past incidents, including the nationwide application and receipt of fact-finding requests, will be fully carried out.

The fact-finding system aims to uncover distorted or concealed truths by investigating cases such as the anti-Japanese independence movement; human rights violations arising from anti-democratic and anti-human rights acts; violence and massacres; and suspicious deaths. It was established to reaffirm the legitimacy of the nation and to contribute to national unity based on reconciliation with the past. This system was created through the National Assembly’s approval after bills related to clearing up past incidents were consolidated and reviewed together.

The application period will run for two years, from February 26, 2026 to February 25, 2028, and may be extended by resolution of the Commission. Applications can be submitted by filling out an application form and either visiting the Autonomous Administration Division of Sokcho City Hall in person, or visiting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission located in Seoul, or by sending it by mail and other means.

Eligible applicants include victims and those who suffered harm, as well as their bereaved families or relatives, which encompasses blood relatives within the eighth degree of kinship, relatives by marriage within the fourth degree of kinship, and spouses under the Civil Act. In addition, individuals who have specific knowledge of cases under the Commission’s fact-finding mandate may also apply.

An official from Sokcho City stated, “Fact-finding on past incidents is an important process not only for restoring individual honor, but also for building social trust and reconciliation,” adding, “We will do our best to provide guidance and administrative support so that citizens who are eligible to apply can fully understand and participate in the system.”