Pohang Mayor-elect Park Yong-seon. [Provided by the Pohang mayoral transition committee]
Pohang Mayor-elect Park Yong-seon. [Provided by the Pohang mayoral transition committee]

Pohang Mayor-elect Park Yong-seon visited the Student Volunteer Corps Victory Memorial Hall on Friday to mark the Month of National Patriots and Veterans, meeting with members of the Pohang chapter of the Student Volunteer Corps Association to hear their views.

Seven members of the Pohang chapter, including chapter president Son Dae-ik, attended the meeting. They shared their experiences fighting in the Korean War and discussed the historical significance of the student volunteer corps.

The participants recalled taking up arms as students to defend the country, and said the values of freedom and peace that South Korea enjoys today were built on the sacrifices of many.

Most members are now around 90 years old, yet still actively practice their love of country and work to pass on the spirit of national defense to younger generations.

The members particularly stressed the importance of education and outreach to ensure the sacrifices of the student volunteer corps are properly conveyed to future generations, and called for continued attention and support from the local community and government.

"The courage and sacrifice shown by the student volunteer corps during the most difficult period in our nation's history is a precious legacy that made today's Republic of Korea possible," Park said. "I will spare no attention or support to ensure that their noble patriotic spirit is properly passed on to future generations."

He added that despite their advanced age, the members continue to uphold the spirit of national defense, and pledged to make every effort to promote their health and welfare and ensure they receive the respect they deserve.

Meanwhile, ahead of the launch of the ninth directly elected municipal administration, Park has been meeting with people from all walks of life across the region, strengthening on-the-ground engagement to reflect a wide range of citizens' views in city governance.


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