Truth and Reconciliation Commission launches 3rd term, forms subcommittees

South Korea's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has officially commenced its third term, marking a new phase in its efforts to uncover historical injustices. The commission held its inaugural plenary meeting, where members established investigative subcommittees tasked with examining past state violence and human rights violations.

Song Sang-gyo, the chairperson of the third TRC, urged committee members to approach their work with heightened sensitivity to victims' suffering. The commission's mandate covers a broad spectrum of historical grievances, including anti-Japanese independence movements during the colonial era, overseas Korean affairs, civilian massacres surrounding the Korean War, and significant human rights abuses committed under authoritarian regimes. Notably, a new subcommittee will be established to address human rights violations related to overseas adoptions and institutional placements.

The newly formed subcommittees will be led by standing committee members. Subcommittee 1, focusing on the Japanese colonial period and overseas Koreans, will be chaired by Kim Gwi-ok. Subcommittee 2, covering human rights violations from liberation to the authoritarian era, will be led by Lee Ho-jung. Subcommittee 3, dedicated to overseas adoptions and institutional issues, will be headed by Jang Young-soo.

In addition to organizing its investigative structure, the commission approved the nomination of Nam Kyung-guk as the candidate for chief of secretariat. This position oversees the operational support of the TRC. Nam, a constitutional law scholar, has held various academic and research positions. However, the nomination was not without dissent, as some committee members reportedly requested reconsideration due to concerns about Nam's perceived lack of administrative and leadership experience within an organization of this nature.

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The Truth and Reconciliation Commission is an institution that deals with the victims of past state violence, and human rights sensitivity is more important than in other institutions. Please keep in mind that our investigation may reopen the wounds of the victims' pain and suffering.