“Separated by an uncrossable gulf of time, we still call out to you”

Ministry of Unification Hosts Ceremony for 2nd Korean War Abductees Remembrance Day (June 28)

[Related National Agenda] 116. Alleviating the Sufferings of Division and Resolving Humanitarian Issues

On June 28, the Ministry of Unification held a commemorative ceremony for the 2nd “Korean War Abductees Remembrance Day” at the National Memorial for Abductees during the Korean War to honor the victims and raise public awareness of the tragedies of wartime abduction.

The ceremony was attended by around 300 people, including Vice Minister of Unification Kim Nam Jung, lawmakers, bereaved family members, and officials from related organizations and agencies.

*Article 11-2, Paragraph 1 of the Korean War Abductees Act:
“In order to remember North Korean abductees and raise public awareness of the damage from North Korea’s abduction, June 28 shall be designated as Memorial Day of North Korean abductees during the Korean War.”

Under the slogan, “Separated by an uncrossable gulf of time, we still call out to you,” the ceremony featured events to look back on the historical facts of wartime abductions, comfort the grieving families, and pass down the memory to future generations.

Beginning with a floral tribute and a moment of silence by all participants, the attendees spent time honoring the sacrifices and reflecting on their deep longing as the names of the abductees were called out by actress Go Doo-shim.

A message of consolation and solidarity was delivered to the families through a commemorative address by President Lee Jae Myung (read on his behalf by Vice Minister Kim Nam Jung), a memorial address by the chairperson of the Korean War Wartime Abductees’ Family Union, and remarks of encouragement from distinguished guests.

The government will continue to make utmost efforts to resolve humanitarian issues resulting from the division of the peninsula, including the issue of South Koreans abducted during the Korean War.