[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Corporation (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

The April 3rd Massacre in Jeju Island was caused because of political problems. After gaining independence from Japan in 1945, the US and the Soviet Union discussed what to do with Korea. But they couldn’t decide, so they handed this problem over to the UN. Finally, the UN decided to hold an election throughout Korea. North Korea, however, rejected this suggestion. Still, Lee Seungman was elected president in South Korea. People in Jeju protested the election. As a result, the April 3rd Massacre happened.

Kim Cheol, chairman of the 4.3 Bereaved Family Association, was also a victim during the April 3rd Massacre. His family climbed Mt.Halla to avoid soldiers, and while climbing the mountain, his uncle was shot in the head and died. Kim was also shot in the arms and back.

“The government doesn’t want to admit this incident was a struggle, because if they do, they have to give money to Jeju people as compensation,” Kim said. However, Kim also believes in a message of hope. “You can change this idea,” he said. “The future is yours.”

For more information, visit the Jeju April 3 Peace Park, which offers videos of victims and an explanation of how the massacre happened. For more details about the park call 064-721-7421 or visit www.jeju43.jeju.go.kr