Government to Cut Benefits to Those With History of Pro-Japanese Activities

The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs (MPVA) announced its plans on March 3 to stop beneficial treatments for those chosen as meritorious independence leaders who have histories of pro-Japanese, anti-national activities.

This is a measure following the passage of the “Law on Benefits for Independence Leaders,” that passed through the National Assembly on March 2. When the history of pro-Japanese activities is uncovered, special benefits for those who worked for Korea’s independence, including veteran’s pensions, family pensions, and educational assistance for the family, will be frozen.

However, the ministry also announced that the pensions already given will not be taken back, even when such history is uncovered. A ministry official said, “Whether to revoke the decoration of a veteran or not is to be decided after consulting with related organizations, including the Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs.”

There are five cases of such revocation, including the one for Mr. Seo Choon, who was decorated for help in the establishment of the nation in 1996.

This measure is to be applied for those whose past pro-Japanese history is to be investigated, according to the “Special Law on Investigating Anti-national Activities under Japanese Occupation.”

Meanwhile, with the passage of this revision, the compensation given to one family member of a decorated Independence leader for moving back to Korea to stay for good is to be increased from the former level of 30 to 50 million won to up to 70 million won.

Sang-Ho Yun ysh1005@donga.com