Kim Yong-tae, the Chairperson of the People Power Party emergency response committee, said on the 18th, “I sincerely apologize for the martial law.”

Kim Yong-tae, chair of the People Power Party's emergency response committee, bows his head in apology to the protesting citizens at the National Democratic Martyrs' Cemetery in Mangwol-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, on the morning of May 18, the 45th anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. /News1

On that day, Chairperson Kim commemorated the 45th anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Uprising by visiting the National Democratic Cemetery in Mangwol-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, and made this statement.

Regarding the reason for visiting this site instead of the new cemetery (National May 18 Democratic Cemetery), Chairperson Kim said, “We must begin our reflection by remembering those who are in the sloped area, rather than the official cemetery.”

He added, “Although I have apologized several times for the martial law, it is more important to have the sincerity to change with the mindset that we were wrong,” and “There were many shortcomings, but we will continue to change so as not to disappoint the citizens of Gwangju, the people of Honam, and the nation.”

Chairperson Kim emphasized, “Instead of dividing people into supporters and opponents of impeachment or blaming each other, we will engage in politics that can understand and reflect diverse views.”

Chairperson Kim stepped over but did not step on the 'Chun Doo-hwan tombstone' located at the entrance of the cemetery. He explained, “(Stepping over the tombstone) is a measure to move forward with understanding and tolerance.”

At the 45th anniversary ceremony of the May 18 Democratic Uprising held at the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju, on May 18, party leaders are singing 'March for the Beloved.' From left are Park Chan-dae, acting representative and floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, Kim Yong-tae, chair of the People Power Party's emergency response committee, Kim Seon-min, acting representative of the Rebuilding Korea Party, and Cheon Ha-ram, floor leader of the Reform Party. /Yonhap

Meanwhile, when Chairperson Kim visited the old cemetery that day, some citizens protested, saying, 'Why are you here?' and 'Act, not perform for show.' In response, Chairperson Kim bowed his head and said, “I will change. I apologize.”