Civic organizations endeavor to set history right

Members of a history association pledge allegiance to the Korean flag to commemorate its first anniversary at the Korea Press Center in Seoul, Wednesday. / Korea Times photo by You Soo-sun

By You Soo-sun

Seventy years have passed since Korea became independent from Japanese colonization, but its history is still replete with the remains of colonial period. More than 140 civic organizations launched an association, Misahyeop ―­ an abbreviated form of what means a meeting for proper history heading towards the future ― dedicated to setting the historical record straight and on Thursday commemorated its first anniversary at the Korea Press Center, Seoul.

Its representative Heo Seong-kwan appraised its progress in his opening congratulatory speech, as many activists and historians have joined the effort since the group was established last year.

Members also criticized local media outlets that mocked their efforts, demanding a formal apology. “There’s a long way to go ― history as of now is at a frightening stage,” its adviser Lee Jong-chan said. “But history will reveal itself ― as with any other truth.” He urged other historians to collectively act toward setting the records straight by paying attention to ancient Korean history. He emphasized the importance of Dangun, the founder of Korea’s first kingdom Gojoseon, and Samguk Sagi, the historical record of the three kingdoms of Korea: Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla.