Saturday marks the 30th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, which occurred at the height of the Cold War and was a terrible imperialist war that was the most destructive ever. The number of dead and the cost exceeded that of World War 1, and more ammunition and bombs were used than in World War 2. More than 5,000 Koreans died there after being criticized for being "America's mercenaries."
30 years later Vietnam is seen as a model developing nation. Thanks to the Doi Moi reforms that began in 1986 it is enjoying 7+ percent yearly growth. Vietnam and Korea established diplomatic relations in 1992 and have since overcome the past relatively easily and established a comprehensive partnership. The understanding on the part of most Vietnamese, that the Korean military had no choice but to participate because of the United States, was a big factor in that. Presidents Kim Dae Jung and Roh Moo Hyun have each visited and apologized. There are private projects underway aimed at remembrance and cooperation. Korean companies are employing more than 350,000 Vietnamese in 800 different places. The "Korea Wave" is stronger there than anywhere else in the rest of Southeast Asia.
All that is not enough for a better future. If new concrete cases of civilian casualties are discovered and the victims and the Vietnamese government demand compensation, it should be seriously considered by the Korean government. Reflecting on our wrongful participation in the war will be important also for achieving Korea's diplomatic goals of a "peaceful and prosperous East Asia." Korea needs to be different from Japan, which is trying hard to ignore the history of the pain it caused for its neighbors.
The Hankyoreh, 29 April 2005.
[Translations by Seoul Selection (PMS)]
[Editorial] 30th Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War |
