Memorizing Korea's Tragic May: 5.18 Democratization Movement

I read a book, which was recommended by RM from BTS, whom I greatly admire. When I first picked up this novel, recommended by a friend, I knew it would be no ordinary read. As I flipped through the pages, I felt a mixture of anticipation and hesitation. It was a profound and challenging narrative, one that compelled me to write this heartfelt review.

 

This book is about 

This remarkable book delves into the events of the 5.18 Democratization Movement, shedding light on a significant period in history. Every word, every sentence evoked a sense of pain and anguish. It is not a book to be read casually, but one that demands to be embraced fully. The events of May 18, 1980, unfolded when students gathered at the main gate of Jeonnam National University in Gwang-ju, Korea. On May 27, 1980, martial law troops indiscriminately attacked the citizens gathered at Jeonnam Provincial Office, bringing a tragic end to the situation. Over the course of ten days, the official casualties numbered over 700, with an estimated 7,200 people affected. Sadly, the perpetrators have yet to show remorse, and the truth behind this massacre remains shrouded in darkness.

 

In 1961

The roots of this tragedy can be traced back to May 16, 1961, with a military coup and the subsequent rise of the military regime. The regime continued to exert its influence, with the passing of President Park Chung-hee on October 26, 1979, and the subsequent rise of Chun Doo-hwan.

 

We forget again...

Yet, it is alarming how easily we Koreans forget such a profound tragedy. The orchestrator of this violence, President Chun Doo-hwan, lived a comfortable life devoid of remorse until his death. But it was not just Chun Doo-hwan alone. Shockingly, it is said that soldiers in Gwangju were provided with a staggering 800,000 rounds of ammunition, surpassing the city's population of only 400,000 at the time. Such a stockpile could have twice annihilated every citizen. Reports even claim that soldiers were rewarded for brutally killing citizens, further instilling fear and terror.

I've never learned about it. 

The violence inflicted on the innocent, including children, pregnant women, and students, is unfathomable. I recall visiting the 5.18 Memorial Hall with my children a few years ago, and although I wanted to fully understand the significance of the event, my knowledge fell short. It was an event that occurred almost 40 years ago, and its recognition and understanding remain limited. Growing up in a different region, far from Gwangju, and lacking relatives there, I never learned about the Gwangju Uprising. This realization sparked curiosity within me. How does my father, who worked as a journalist during that time, remember and recount those events? In an era of heavy censorship, even if he had knowledge, speaking about it was impossible. As a journalist, he couldn't boldly publish articles either. Yet, I wonder, how did my father perceive those times? He is now an 80-year-old staunch conservative (as we all seem to become with age). Though it may seem futile to ask him now, the curiosity lingers.

 

What I should do 

As someone who loves books and actively participates in book clubs, I realize the importance of reading literature that addresses significant issues, particularly during critical moments in history. It is the right thing to do, to deeply reflect and engage with such works, even if it is through our own unique lens. Last month, during the 9th anniversary of the Sewol Ferry incident, I was astounded to discover that every single book related to the tragedy was shelved in the reference section of the library, gathering dust. It was disheartening to witness this lack of interest. Even during the month when the Sewol Ferry disaster occurred, people chose not to borrow those books. I, too, borrowed one but found myself postponing it after reading only a few pages, prioritizing other books instead.

 

Not to block the popularity of K-pops 

Why do these tragedies continue to plague South Korea? And why do those responsible fail to apologize and acknowledge the historical significance? Despite being a global powerhouse in IT and K-pop culture, this country still has much ground to cover in terms of historical and political awareness. Let us remind ourselves not to forget these events and renew our commitment to understanding and addressing them.

 

Note: 

The novel '소년이 온다[Sonyeoni On-da], which means 'Boy is comming' has been translated and published in German under the title "Der Junge Kommt" in 2017. Prior to that, an English translation was published under the title 'Human Acts'. I appreciate your bringing this to my attention.)

 

Additional Note:

The Sewol Ferry incident refers to a tragic event that took place in South Korea on April 16, 2014. The Sewol Ferry, carrying mostly high school students on a school trip, capsized and sank off the southwestern coast of South Korea. The incident resulted in the loss of 304 lives, mostly students, and deeply shocked the nation. The response to the disaster, including the handling of the rescue operation and the subsequent investigation, sparked widespread public outrage and raised concerns about safety regulations, emergency procedures, and government accountability. The Sewol Ferry incident remains a significant and profoundly emotional event in South Korean history.)