1. Introduction
On May 18, 1980, South Korean history was deeply stained with sorrow and pain. The Gwangju Uprising of May 18, a movement by Gwangju citizens and Jeollanam-do people against the unjust power seizure of the Chun Doo-hwan military junta, ended in suppression and massacre. However, today we inherit their spirit and move forward towards true democracy.
In this blog, we will delve into the background, major events, sacrifices and truth-finding, and the meaning of the Gwangju Uprising of May 18.
2. Background of the Gwangju Uprising of May 18
After the assassination of President Park Chung-hee on October 26, 1979, South Korea was plunged into turmoil. The Chun Doo-hwan military junta, which seized power through the December 12 military coup, declared martial law, suppressed the press and civil society, and established a dictatorial regime.
The Gwangju Uprising of May 18, born in this situation, was the result of the explosion of the people's desire for democratization and their protest against the military junta.
3. Major Events
May 18: Protests began in Gwangju against the nationwide expansion of martial law by the Chun Doo-hwan military junta. The protests quickly spread throughout Jeollanam-do, and the citizens established the Gwangju Democratization Movement Headquarters and organized a self-defense force.
May 20: The Chun Doo-hwan military junta deployed airborne troops to suppress the Gwangju citizens by force. In the process, hundreds of citizens were killed and tens of thousands were injured.
May 27: Gwangju citizens again took to the streets in protest, but the protests were once again suppressed by the military junta's violence.
4. Sacrifices and Truth-finding
It is difficult to determine the exact number of casualties in the Gwangju Uprising of May 18, but it is estimated to be in the hundreds to thousands. In addition, many citizens were victims of arrest, torture, and sexual assault.
Since the 1980s, efforts to uncover the truth of May 18 have continued, and in 1997, after the inauguration of President Kim Dae-jung, a Truth Commission was established to investigate the truth of the May 18 incident. However, there are still many truths that have not been revealed, and there are also criticisms that the punishment of the perpetrators is insufficient.
5. The Meaning of the Gwangju Uprising of May 18
The Gwangju Uprising of May 18 holds significant meaning in modern Korean history. This movement is a symbol of the courage and sacrifice of the citizens who fought against military dictatorship and made a great contribution to the development of Korean democracy. In addition, May 18 is an event that reminds us of the importance of human rights and freedom, and it plays an important role in cultivating democratic values in our society today.
6. Conclusion
The Gwangju Uprising of May 18 was a tragic event, but it is a precious legacy that reminds us of the importance of democracy. We must inherit the spirit of May 18 and create a better future.
