Students Urge President Lee Jae-myung to Apologize for 'Sabuk Uprising' Victims

A group of students from Sabuk Middle and High School have taken a significant step in seeking historical justice by penning a letter to President Lee Jae-myung, urging a formal apology for the victims of the "Sabuk Uprising." This powerful movement, inspired by the documentary film "1980 Sabuk," highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and redress for a pivotal event in South Korean labor history.

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The Sabuk incident is an important historical event where state power violated the basic human rights of the people.

The "Sabuk Uprising" in 1980 was a fierce protest by coal miners in Sabuk-eup, Jeongseon County, against harsh working conditions. What began as a labor dispute quickly escalated into a major confrontation with police, leaving a deep scar on the local community. The students, deeply moved by the film's depiction of the events, felt compelled to act, emphasizing that the uprising represents a critical instance where state power infringed upon the fundamental human rights of its citizens.

In their heartfelt letters, students like Kim Tae-in and Kwon Do-geon articulated the importance of acknowledging this dark chapter. Kim stressed the need for a "state-level review and organization" to ensure the "Sabuk Incident" is not distorted or minimized in textbooks and public records. Kwon expressed a personal desire for the President to visit Sabuk and offer a "sincere apology to the victims," underscoring the lingering pain and the need for official reconciliation.

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My wish is for you to promote the truth about the Sabuk Uprising as the representative of the Republic of Korea and visit Sabuk to offer a sincere apology to the victims.

The students' initiative has garnered a positive response from the Blue House, with a presidential secretary assuring them that their concerns are being taken seriously and that "efforts will be made for follow-up measures." This response offers a glimmer of hope for the survivors and families who have long awaited acknowledgment. From the perspective of the Sabuk community, this student-led advocacy is particularly meaningful. Many families in the area have direct or indirect ties to the uprising, yet the trauma associated with the event has often silenced victims, preventing the full story from being told. The students' courage in speaking out is a vital step towards healing and ensuring that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.

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We have received the students' letters well. The Blue House is looking into the Sabuk incident in depth, and we believe we will be able to deliver good news to the students soon.

While past truth commissions have recommended state apologies and victim relief, a formal apology from the government remains elusive. The students' letter, coupled with recent court acquittals for some individuals charged during the uprising, signifies a growing momentum for closure. The survivors, some of whom are elderly, are anxiously awaiting President Lee's response, hoping that his administration will finally address this historical injustice.

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Survivors who have a short time left are waiting for an apology from the Lee Jae-myung administration on the 46th anniversary of the Sabuk Incident.