Consoling the longstanding pain of separated families
Unification Ministry holds an event to console separated families
residing in Seoul (May 28)
On May 28, the Ministry of Unification held a consolation event at
Hotel Koreana in Seoul, inviting approximately 100 elderly members of
separated families residing in the capital. The event provided an
opportunity to offer solace for the enduring pain of separation and to
share hope through open dialogue.
Acting President Lee Ju-ho attended the event and delivered a
heartfelt message, noting, “This year marks the 80th anniversary of
Korea’s liberation, a history that is also one of division and the
sorrow of separated families.”
He further emphasized the “need for the younger generations,
successors to separated families, to understand and overcome the pain
of division,” adding, “We will strive toward a future of unification
and uphold the hopes of separated families.”
Vice Minister of Unification Kim Soo Kyung also offered words of
comfort and explained the South Korean government’s various efforts to
resolve the issue of separated families and to raise public awareness.
She reaffirmed that the government would “continue to do its utmost to
address the issue of separated families.”
The event also featured a talk concert under the theme “Beyond the
Longing, Until the Day We Meet Again,” in which four individuals,
including second-generation members of separated families and North
Korean defectors, shared their stories, reflected on their hometowns
they left behind, and expressed longing for their loved ones.
In addition, the program included a laughter therapy lecture and
cultural performances designed to bring joy and healing to the elderly participants.
