Seoul, South Korea – On January 14, a series of significant events in South Korean history were remembered, highlighting the nation's diplomatic, political, and technological advancements, as well as its challenges. These events, spanning several decades, reflect the dynamic and complex history of South Korea.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, January 14 marks the anniversary of several key events. In 1963, South Korea established diplomatic relations with Canada, marking a significant step in the nation's international engagement. Four years later, in 1967, a tragic maritime accident occurred when the passenger ship Hanil-ho collided with a Navy vessel, resulting in the loss of 94 lives. This incident remains one of the worst maritime disasters in the country's history.
The date also holds a darker chapter in the nation's history. In 1978, South Korean actress Choi Eun-hee was abducted by North Korean agents in Hong Kong, followed by the abduction of her husband, movie director Shin Sang-ok, two weeks later. The couple was taken to North Korea, where they were forced to make films praising the leadership of Kim Il-sung and his son Kim Jong-il. After eight years, they managed to escape and sought refuge at the U.S. Embassy in Vienna in March 1986.
January 14, 1987, marks the death of student activist Park Chong-chul, who was tortured to death. The news of his death sparked massive protests, leading to the introduction of democratization measures by the military regime of Roh Tae-woo. This event is seen as a pivotal moment in South Korea's path to democracy.
On the technological front, January 14, 1996, witnessed the launch of South Korea's second commercial satellite, the Mugunghwa-2, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. This marked a significant achievement in the country's space program.
In 2002, Prosecutor General Shin Seung-nam resigned following the arrest of his younger brother, who was accused of receiving money from businessman Lee Yong-ho, in return for influencing a case involving stock manipulation and embezzlement.
The country's economic developments are also noted on this date. In 2011, Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co.'s creditors reached a preliminary deal with Hyundai Motor Group to sell a 35 percent stake in the leading builder for about 5 trillion won.
In a move toward corporate responsibility, Samsung Electronics Co. issued an apology in 2016 to the families of workers who suffered illnesses or deaths due to working conditions at its chipmaking facilities, ending an eight-year dispute.
Recent political reforms were also highlighted. In 2018, the government announced plans to reform the country's three major investigation agencies to prevent the abuse of power. This move was partly aimed at improving transparency and accountability in government institutions.
Lastly, on January 14, 2021, the Supreme Court upheld a 20-year sentence for former President Park Geun-hye in a high-profile corruption case. This verdict concluded a yearslong saga that had significant political ramifications, including her removal from office in 2017.