On January 22, Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made important statements regarding the appellate court’s decision in Seoul concerning the 1968 Quang Nam massacre. The court ordered the South Korean government to compensate Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh, who lost her family in this tragic historical event, with over 30 million won (approximately $20,000).
The appellate court’s decision not only marks a significant legal milestone but also carries profound humanitarian significance, contributing to healing war wounds and fostering relations between the two nations.
Vietnam Welcomes Landmark Decision
Ms. Hang emphasized that Vietnam welcomes the recent decision by the Seoul appellate court. This decision reflects historical truth and embodies the principle of “putting the past behind us and looking toward the future,” which both Vietnam and South Korea value.
Vietnam speaks about the Seoul court's decision on the Quang Nam massacre – 1
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
According to Ms. Hang, this ruling not only upholds justice for the victims but also lays a solid foundation for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Vietnam hopes that through concrete actions to address war consequences, the friendship and cooperation between the two peoples will grow stronger.
Background of the 1968 Quang Nam Massacre
The 1968 Phong Nhi village massacre in Dien An Ward, Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam Province, is one of the most tragic events in Vietnamese history. Approximately 70 innocent civilians were brutally murdered by South Korean forces, causing significant loss of life and enduring pain for many generations.
In 2020, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh, one of the surviving victims, filed a lawsuit against the South Korean government seeking justice. In 2023, the Seoul district court ruled in favor of Ms. Thanh, ordering the South Korean government to compensate her with over 30 million won. Recently, the appellate court upheld this decision, including additional compensation due to delayed payments.
Legal and Humanitarian Significance
The appellate court’s decision in Seoul carries both legal and profound humanitarian weight. Acknowledging responsibility and compensating the victims exemplifies open dialogue and mutual respect between nations. This also helps shed light on historical truths, allowing younger generations to better understand the past and draw valuable lessons for the future.
Moreover, this decision opens opportunities for enhanced cooperation between Vietnam and South Korea across various fields, from economy and culture to education. This is a crucial foundation for building a sustainable relationship based on trust and mutual understanding.
Towards a Brighter Future
As relations between Vietnam and South Korea continue to develop, the appellate court’s decision is expected to become a significant milestone. Beyond compensating for damages, it serves as a reminder of the importance of peace, justice, and unity among nations.
Vietnam hopes to work alongside South Korea to promote activities addressing war consequences, particularly supporting victims and affected families. Both countries should focus on educational and cultural exchange programs to help the younger generation better understand history and appreciate the value of peace.
Conclusion
The appellate court’s decision on the Quang Nam massacre is not just a victory for justice but also an emblem of reconciliation and international cooperation. Vietnam and South Korea must seize this opportunity to build a brighter future where painful history becomes a driving force for peace and prosperity.
For more information on Vietnam-South Korea relations and related issues, readers can refer to official sources or follow updates from the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Sources:
- Dantri
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam
