“Embracing Our Hometowns, Connecting Peace”

Unification Ministry Holds the 3rd North Korean-born Citizens’ Day (Bukhyangmin) (July 14)

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

On July 14, the Ministry of Unification hosted the ceremony for the 3rd North Korean-born Citizens’ Day (Bukhyangmin) under the theme “Embracing Hometown, Connecting Peace,” with around 1,000 attendees, including North Korean-born citizens and those working for their settlement support.

The ceremony also invited “Eeum Dongbanja (Connecting Companions)”—the South Korean neighbors, colleagues, friends, and families who accompanied and supported North Korea-born citizens through their settlement journey.

*North Korean-born Citizens’ Day (Bukhyangmin): Marking its 3rd anniversary, the North Korean-born Citizens’ Day was designated as a national memorial day in 2024 to embrace North Korean-born citizens, enhance their rights and interests, and foster an integrated culture between South and North Korean residents.

The ceremony began with a pre-performance by North Korean-born citizen singer Myeong Seong Hee and an opening performance by the Sokcho Dondollari Preservation Society, followed by presentations of successful settlement stories by four North Korean-born citizens, awards for persons of merit, a commemorative performance, and a celebratory performance featuring both South and North Korean performers.

In addition, President Lee Jae Myung delivered a congratulatory address (read by Lim Woongsoon, Second Deputy Director of the National Security Office), along with encouraging remarks from Minister of Unification Chung Dong Young.

In his remarks, Minister Chung stated, “This year, for the first time, we commemorate this day under the name of ‘Bukhyangmin’ (people whose hometown is North Korea).” He added, “The history of titles and names is not simple. Names represent identity.”

He continued, “Everyone has a hometown. Among the more than 34,600 North Korean-born citizens living diligently while longing for their hometowns, the stories of four individuals who overcame the adversities in life must have deeply moved you.” He remarked, “Today’s inspiring stories showed us how an individual’s journey can lead to hope for the community.”

Meanwhile, around North Korean-born Citizens’ Day (Bukhyangmin), local governments across the country are hosting various events, including their own commemorative ceremonies, cultural performances, hands-on activities, and promotional events.

The South Korean government expects that these diverse events, including this commemorative ceremony, will serve as a meaningful opportunity to broaden understanding and empathy toward North Korean-born citizens and share the value of social integration.