'Civilian' Regime Going Beserk
This is the title of an article in the August 3 edition of The
Pyongyang Times by staff reporter Song Myong Chol. The article
reviews the developments in South Korea during the month of July
pointing to attempts to strengthen north-south confrontation and
war moves and the suppression of the people in an attempt to find
a way out of the crisis facing that country.
During a meeting with members of the New Korea Party,
President Kim Young Sam said that the "easy-going attitude" of the
south korean people according to which "the people in the north are
our fellow Koreans" must be eliminated.
During an inspection of the areas along the Military
Demarcation Line (DMZ), Kim praised the presence of American troops
in south Korea and the arms build-up. He repeatedly called on the
troops to be ready for any "emergency" and used language intended
to provoke the north.
Several joint south Korean-U.S. military exercises were held
during the month: On July 8, a joint five-day combat ready exercise
in and around Seoul; on July 11, a model exercise for the use of
tank barriers in the mideastern part of the frontline; on July 15,
a large-scale north-targeted joint landing exercise along the east
coast, with the mobilization of massive air and naval forces. From
July 23 to 25, huge armed forces were brought right into densely
populated Seoul. A frantic war exercise was staged which involved
shooting guns and throwing hand grenades night and day.
Youth and students were imprisoned throughout the month,
including Kim Jon Un, the chairman of the National Federation of
Student Associations and a university student, Kim Jong Du, on
charges that they "discussed" the matter of forming a joint
organization of the general student councils of more than 60
universities throughout south Korea, and that they read, printed
and distributed "seditious books." Ryo Song U, chairman of the
National Students League, was imprisoned on the charge of leading
a student demonstration.
Workers were also arrested. On July 4, 54 members of a joint
worker-student demonstration were arrested for demanding the
reinstatement of dismissed workers and a raise in wages.
While students throughout the country demanded an end to the
"security-oriented rule" and the abolition of the "National
Security Law", public sector workers and workers under the Hyundai
federation of unions also went on strike.
In conclusion, the article points out that "In this way people
from all parts of south Korean society put up a dynamic struggle in
demand of their right to live. All the facts show that the Kim
Young Sam group cursed and forsaken by the people, cannot remain
long in power."
Shawgi Tell
University at Buffalo
Graduate School of Education
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
