'Veterans affairs should not be subject of political conflict': minister

Patriots and Veterans Minister Kang Jung-ai speaks during a press conference held at the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap

Patriots and Veterans Affairs Minister Kang Jung-ai said Wednesday she will carry out veterans-related policies without causing political conflicts.

"Veterans affairs should not be a subject of [political] conflict. There is no, and should not be, left or right when it comes to veterans' issues," she said during a press conference held at the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul's Yongsan District. It was the first such event held since she took office in late December.

"I will strive to carry out my duties in a way that prevents veterans' affairs from becoming a source of conflict and make efforts for our policies to play a significant role in pursuing national unity," she added.

Controversial assessments about independence fighter Hong Beom-do were a source of political debate during the tenure of former Veterans Minister Park Min-shik. The controversy emerged after the Ministry of National Defense announced in August 2023 that it would remove Hong's bust from the Korean Military Academy, citing his past involvement with Soviet communist forces.

During Thursday's press conference, Kang commented on the controversial figures position in Korean history.

"He is a true patriot and independence fighter who engaged in independence activities for the nation from a young age. His contributions should be honored," the minister said.

But, she added, "As I've mentioned during my confirmation hearing, we should uphold our national identity. We chose liberal democracy [after liberation from Japan]."

Kang also told reporters that her ministry is in talks with the defense ministry on the transfer of the management of the Seoul National Cemetery in Dongjak District, following last year's decision to do so. The transfer is touted as one of the major accomplishments since the veterans' ministry was upgraded to a full-fledged ministry in June 2023.

The minister pledged to prepare various veterans-related events in 2025, which marks the 80th anniversary of the nation's independence from Japanese occupation in 1945.

"Last year, we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement and we will celebrate the 80th anniversary of National Liberation Day next year. We will make full-fledged preparations to honor and remember the noble spirit demonstrated by those who willingly sacrificed their lives for the country's independence," she said.

In addition, Kang said that her ministry is considering launching a fundraising campaign among people and private companies to support welfare programs for veterans. This initiative aims to foster the spirit of honoring patriotic services in the nation's culture.

However, the minister pointed out that such efforts would require revisions to relevant laws. Under current laws, central and local government organizations are prohibited from directly collecting funds from people or private entities.

"We will be able to share more details in March since this project would require discussions with related organizations," Kang said.