"Describing it as a riot has hurt many"…Criticism continues despite late clarification
Cho Hee-yeon, a gold medalist in women's swimming at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games, expressed regret after referring to the May 18 Gwangju Democratic Uprising as a "riot," which sparked controversy.
On the 8th, Cho took to her social media platform 'Threads' to say, "It seems that many were hurt by my comment describing the May 18 movement as a 'riot,'" adding, "I deeply apologize to the innocent citizens who suffered due to the May 18 incident, and I sincerely apologize to those who lost their lives while calling for democracy."
She continued, "The target of my criticism was not those noble spirits," and added, "I am saddened that my intentions seem to have been misunderstood due to my extreme comment."
"5.18 is a riot" remark led to accusations…"Can’t I express my thoughts?" she countered
Previously, Cho had posted on the same platform, "A phrase I say all the time: 5.18 is a riot! It’s a riot united by a spirit of rebellion! But now that they want to enshrine the spirit of May 18 in the constitution, I just sigh," which drew criticism.
In response to the backlash, she stated, "I just saw the comments. I don’t think I need to delete it. There is freedom of thought and freedom of expression," and added, "I didn’t rise up to threaten anyone, so why can’t I speak?" However, after facing accusations, she changed her stance and issued an official apology.
Accused of violating special law…"Distortion of historical facts"
Cho's remarks were reported for allegedly violating the 'Special Act on the May 18 Democratic Uprising.' The complainant stated, "Cho distorted the essence of the May 18 Democratic Uprising and directly opposed the historical facts established by law and judicial rulings."
The complainant further pointed out, "By openly defining May 18 as a 'riot,' she violated Article 8, Paragraph 1 of the special law, which prohibits the dissemination of false information, and this constitutes damage to national perception and historical distortion." They emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and legal punishment.
Meanwhile, the 'Special Act on the May 18 Democratic Uprising' was enacted on November 24, 1995, under the directives of the late former President Kim Young-sam, aimed at clarifying the truth of the democratic movement and restoring the honor of those involved.
Image source: Channel A, Threads
