The article discusses a heated protest and meeting between former and current members of South Korea’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and its current chair, Ahn Chang-ho. On January 10, 2025, around 20 former NHRC commissioners and secretaries-general, including former chairperson Choi Young-ae, gathered outside the NHRC headquarters in Seoul to speak out against a proposed agenda item for the upcoming plenary session on January 13. The controversial proposal, which would justify martial law and protect the defense rights of President Yoon Suk-yeol who faces charges of rebellion, sparked widespread criticism among human rights advocates.
The critics, including former commissioners Moon Kyung-ran, Moon Soon-hoe, and 정문자, expressed their dismay at the apparent political bias and overstep of the NHRC’s responsibilities. They argued that the commission should prioritize protecting the human rights of citizens affected by potentially illegal martial law, rather than advocating for individuals accused of serious charges like rebellion and sedition.
A series of harsh statements were made during the protest. Former commissioner 정문자 criticized the NHRC for appearing to serve political interests rather than its true mandate. Meanwhile, participants called for the withdrawal of the controversial agenda and demanded the resignation of those involved in proposing it. The gathering included the presentation of a letter to Chairman Ahn, urging him to consider the reputation and values of the NHRC during his tenure. The article highlights the tension between the responsibility of the NHRC to uphold human rights and perceived attempts to align with political powers.