Civic groups demand probe into Wonju's Academy Theater demolition

Civic groups are intensifying calls for a thorough investigation into the forced demolition of Wonju's Academy Theater, which occurred three years ago, urging the next local government to establish preventative measures.

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The next local government must conduct an independent investigation with citizen participation into the administrative decisions and conflict resolution processes during the theater's demolition.

The group 'Friends of the Academy' held a press conference at the Wonju City Hall, demanding an independent investigation with citizen participation into the administrative decisions and conflict resolution processes surrounding the theater's demolition. They stressed that the investigation must have substantial authority to ensure it is not merely a formality and that its findings are officially recorded.

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The theater's demolition left a deep scar on the local community, but that experience should serve as an opportunity to re-examine Wonju's cultural policies.

"The theater's demolition left a deep scar on the local community, but that experience should serve as an opportunity to re-examine Wonju's cultural policies," the group stated. They argued that instead of glossing over the conflict, a proper investigation into the causes, administrative problems, and responsibilities is crucial to establish principles and systems for preventing recurrence.

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We need to properly investigate why such a conflict occurred, clearly examine the problems and responsibilities in the administrative process, and establish principles and systems to prevent recurrence.

Friends of the Academy also advocated for a shift towards citizen-participatory cultural democracy policies, enhancing the public nature and transparency of cultural administration. They highlighted the need for public audiovisual policies that connect Wonju's history and cultural memory to future assets, asserting that unilateral administrative actions excluding citizens cannot restore trust. The group believes that reconstructing Wonju's cultural policies around citizen participation, public cultural values, and diversity is essential for moving beyond conflict and towards cooperation and coexistence.

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The next local government must not ignore past conflicts but start a new transition based on the attitude of reflecting on and recovering the process with citizens.