At the end of last year, the United Nations Committee against Torture reviewed South Korea, where Seok-joo Son, a survivor of historic abuse, bravely shared his testimony. Representing the Association of Survivors of Detention Facilities in Busan, he detailed his harrowing experience in institutions that exploited and abused marginalized individuals, calling for crucial changes to prevent future violations.
Son was detained as a child from the ages of 9 to 16, enduring severe mistreatment in several placement facilities. He witnessed friends perish from the appalling conditions. The formative years of education were robbed from him, resulting in a lifetime of trauma and despair. Now, he passionately advocates for recognition and reparation for victims like himself and raises awareness about these grim facilities often overlooked in South Korea’s narrative.
The obscurity surrounding this painful chapter in South Korea’s history stems from impunity and societal stigma. The government has failed to assume responsibility or issue public apologies, instead burying the truth of these injustices. Son highlights that this neglect, wrapped in the guise of social reform, has concealed the rights abuses suffered by many, pushing them to the shadows of society.
Historically, during the “vagrant crackdowns,” the government’s role was one of negligence, blatantly disregarding human rights by allowing these institutions to expand unchecked. With no accountability measures introduced, the government has simply turned away from demands for justice and has ignored the pressing need for truth and reconciliation, thereby allowing a culture of silence to prevail.
Survivors like Son grapple with profound emotional and physical trauma stemming from their experiences. The lack of official recognition and medical care compounds their suffering. Fear and mistrust of authorities hinder their healing, turning life into a struggle, filled with memories of abuse and despair.
To prevent future violations, Son calls for the closure of active detention facilities, a formal apology from the government, reparations for survivors, and a commitment to honour the memories of those unjustly lost. Additionally, he emphasises the need for comprehensive psychological and medical support for the remaining victims to lead dignified lives moving forward.
Global support from the international community can significantly bolster efforts toward justice for survivors. By highlighting the human rights violations committed by South Korea, and advocating for recognition of state responsibility, the global community can help amplify survivors’ voices, fostering solidarity and awareness.
Reflecting on his recent participation in the CAT session in Geneva, Son emerged with a newfound sense of empathy and support. He views sharing his story as essential to healing and hopes his testimony will catalyse necessary reforms within South Korean society. As his journey continues, he embodies resilience, reminding us that the fight for truth and justice for historical human rights violations is far from over.
Seok-joo Son, a survivor of historic abuse in South Korea, shared his harrowing experiences before the UN Committee against Torture, revealing the systemic abuse faced by marginalized groups in detention facilities. He calls for governmental accountability, reparations, and necessary reforms to prevent future violations. His advocacy highlights the need for collective recognition and support within the international community to address these past injustices.
Seok-joo Son’s courageous testimony shines a light on the dark past of human rights violations in South Korea. His call for accountability is a plea not only for personal healing but for recognition, reparations, and systemic changes to prevent such horrors from recurring. In the enduring quest for justice, the support of the international community is vital in amplifying the voices of survivors and ensuring their rightful place in history is recognised and respected.
Original Source: www.omct.org
