Lee Cheol-woo proposes hero statues in Gwanghwamun

Gyeongsangbuk-do Governor Lee Cheol-woo has proposed erecting statues of South Korean national heroes in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, to honor the country's foundation, industrialization, and democratization.

In a social media post on National Foundation Day, Lee addressed recent controversies, including a lawsuit to remove a statue of former President Park Chung-hee at Dongdaegu Station and the film ‘Assassins’. He argued that while historical figures may have had flaws and limitations, their contributions to the nation should not be denied or erased for political purposes.

Lee specifically highlighted the roles of Syngman Rhee in establishing the foundation of liberal democracy and Park Chung-hee in driving industrialization and economic growth. He emphasized that South Korea’s current prosperity is a result of both the policies of past leaders and the sacrifices of its citizens. He urged society to remember historical figures by acknowledging both their achievements and their mistakes, citing the United States' practice of honoring leaders like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln despite their controversial legacies.