On Thursday, marking the 16th anniversary of the Cheonan sinking, the People Power Party honored the fallen soldiers and offered support to survivors while condemning attempts to distort North Korea’s role in the incident.
The party criticized discussions about lifting sanctions on North Korea as premature, given Pyongyang’s lack of apology for the attack.
Party Secretary-General Jeong Hee-yong expressed deep sorrow on Facebook for the 46 Cheonan heroes who died defending waters near Baekryeong Island on March 26, 2010, and for Chief Warrant Officer Han Joo-ho, who perished during search operations.
Jeong stressed that despite clear evidence of North Korean involvement, attempts to distort the truth have persisted for 16 years. He firmly stated that it must stand against any efforts to obscure or deny the facts of this tragedy.
The party also took issue with the Unification Minister’s suggestion to review the May 24 sanctions, arguing that such discussions are inappropriate without a formal apology from North Korea.
At a party meeting, Supreme Council member Woo Jae-jun emphasized that the nation’s peace is built on the sacrifices of its defenders. He affirmed the party’s commitment to bolstering national security with unwavering resolve.
Former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min echoed these sentiments on social media, asserting that honoring fallen heroes should transcend political divides. He condemned attempts to deny North Korea’s role, stating they dishonor the deceased and wound survivors and families alike.
In a related event, Busan mayoral candidate and lawmaker Joo Jin-woo paid respects at Geumjeong High School, the alma mater of Captain Moon Gyu-seok, one of the Cheonan victims.
Joo pledged to strengthen national security, stating that the free nation stands on the sacrifices of these patriots. It must ensure their deaths were not in vain.