THE KUKMIN DAILY

-Conservative and Progressive Church Leaders Denounce Japan at Press Conference-

Major Korean church leaders, including both conservatives and progressives, have initiated an all-citizens movement condemning Japan’s attempt to register as “world cultural heritages,” sites that are closely linked to the country’s past imperial rule. The problematic sites include Hashima, known as “Hell Island” for the suffering imposed on hundreds of Koreans who were forcibly mobilized to labor in its coal mine.

With Easter just a few days away, the Christian Council of Korea (CCK), the Communion of Churches in Korea (CCIK), the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) and other major ecumenical organizations of the Korean church, along with the “Korean Church - Council of Five Laypersons' Groups in the National Assembly,” held an emergency press conference on April 1 in the National Assembly press room in Yeoeuido, Seoul, at which they announced the above stance. It was unprecedented for the leaders of these three ecumenical organizations and the lay council to speak with one voice and to join for such specific action.

In the photo, major Korean church leaders announce their “Joint Declaration Condemning Japan’s Attempt to Register World Cultural Heritages Related to Japanese Imperial Rule,” on April 1 at the National Assembly press room. From left are: General Secretary Eom Jin-yong of Assembly of God Korea (Yoido Full Gospel), Co-president Jeon Yong-tae of the World Holy City Movement Headquarters, CCK Honorary President Lee Gang-pyeong, Standing Representative Kim Young-jin of the Korean Church - Council of Five Laypersons' Groups in the National Assembly, CCK President Lee Young-Hoon, NCCK Moderator Hwang Yong-dae, CCIK President Yang Byeong-hui, and CCIK Executive Director Kim Chun-gyu.

Reporter Jaechan Park (jeep@kmib.co.kr), with Marion Kim (marionkkim@icloud.com)
Photo by senior reporter Kang Min Seok


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