The May 18 National Cemetery: A pain Unscathed

By Carol Smith

Korean patriotism is commendable and admirable. Many places in Korea uphold the country’s unique culture and forbearance. Older folk regularly sing old tunes to express their genuine love of country, plainly visible in their eyes and tone. Korea remains a nation that has surpassed many painful struggles, one of which is the seemingly forgotten May 18 Democratic Uprising.

The May 18 National Cemetery is refuge for almost two thousand souls, the estimated death toll during that time, as well as to more than three thousand people who were either injured or went missing during the uprising. It was established to commemorate the victims and give province residents the peace they wanted. The uprising was so tragic that to these days many still leave the cemetery teary-eyed after learning about Gwangju’s not-so-long-ago plight.
People who visit these places often end up awed and mystified by the beautiful scenery and landscapes which uphold the victims of the so called “o-il-pal” (오일팔) revolution. For foreigners and those who visit the outskirts of Gwangju, the erection of the monument and management of a haven for the souls sacrificed during the uprising is quite commendable. It may seem fitting and sufficient for visitors. Yet, for those who reside in Gwangju and especially for those who witnessed the chaos, it is not. Many survivors still grieve the loss of a child, relative or friend. The sight of their names in templates of silver or gold or on mounds of soil cannot eradicate their pain or sooth their spirit. For many Koreans, the consequences of the uprising are a sad, forgotten truth or a lost memory.

“Only a few people in Gwangju know about the ‘o-il-pal’. Many Koreans often simply shrug it off because they know little about it” said a professor. Though the number of sacrificed lives during the uprising is accounted for, the cemetery remains a symbol of the struggle that claimed young souls—souls that created a better Gwangju, a better Korea.

May the cemetery be a place of reflection and learning for the younger generation. The cemetery should not just be a place to flaunt seasonal luxuries. It should be a place that speaks to Korea’s courage and unified goal- Let it be a pain unscathed.