Legacy

Kim Ik-jo's life story demonstrates the enduring power of memory and the importance of comprehending history through personal experience. Kim was born and raised in Jeju during a period of silence following the 4.3 Incident. He only learned fragments of the tragic events from his grandmother, mother, and uncle, but they left a permanent mark and sparked his interest in his nation's forgotten history.

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The 4.3 Incident impacted not just his perception of Jeju but also his ideals later in life. Kim retired from his work at Gimpo Airport and began studying Jeju's history and ideas on his own, using books, archives, and training programs. His current position as a guide at the Jeju 4.3 Peace Foundation allows him to tell these stories, focusing on ordinary people's experiences rather than political labels. Through this work, he emphasizes that history is more than just facts; it is also about empathy, reflection, and continuous discussion.

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Looking forward, Kim aspires to build a "dictionary of ideology," a human-centered resource that would assist ordinary people to better understand the complicated concepts behind Jeju 4.3. While the effort may take several years, it represents his philosophy that learning and sharing history is a lifetime process. He also highlights that learning about history is more than simply information; it is an aspect of healing that allows people and communities to confront trauma, reconcile, and remember.

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This interview leaves a lesson for future generations that comprehending history needs curiosity, humility, and a willingness to look beyond political or ideological boundaries. As Kim shows, memory and education are inseparable; sharing the past not only preserves truth, but also promotes thought, empathy, and progress in those who follow. His story reveals that by recognizing the experiences of those who came before us, we can build a more knowledgeable and compassionate future.