June Jubilation

             Korea, a country of struggle still affected by its war fifty years ago, celebrated its 50th Anniversary on June 25th. Unlike the commemorations of past years with military parades and big extravaganzas, this half-century parade and its battle re-enactments were cancelled. Instead of such extravagances, it was replaced with photo exhibits and dinner parties for the veterans of the war. Most veterans were pleased with the idea and endorsed it, but not all the veterans were fond of this alteration. Even though the veterans are against this change, the Koreans are following more towards the peaceful solution. Korea has been technically at war even after an armistice, which was made to stop the fighting between the two countries.

             An extraordinary event during the month of June sparked a boost for ending this war. President Kim Dae-jung (South Korea) and President Kim Jong Il (North Korea) shook hands for the first time, which spread deep generosity throughout the two Koreas. President Kim Dae-jung flew to Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, for the discussion of diplomacy with President Kim Jong Il. Topics such as those of the reunification of families separated, due to the war, were brought up. This action might help the two Koreas combine in the future. Even though the thought of peace for these countries is wonderful, I believe that the North Koreans are only acting and trying to get along this way because they just went through a famine and they need supplies and food. But by being a single country, it would help the North Koreans get back on its feet, which is also a very moral way of life. But with such steps like this, the Koreas might be able to reach its ultimate goal of being one country.

Related Essays: