“Don’t Forget Me”
A Symbol for Abductees, Detainees, and POWs
“Three
Forget-me-nots” Blossom in Hangang Park
Unification Ministry exhibits a symbolic sculpture for abductees,
detainees, and POWs at the Seoul International Garden Show 2024 (May 16)
On May 16, the Ministry of Unification participated in the Seoul
International Garden Show 2024 organized by Seoul Metropolitan
Government and unveiled the Garden of the Three Forget-me-not Blossoms
as a part of efforts to publicize the meaning of the “three
forget-me-nots” both domestically and internationally.
The sculpture, a glass artwork inspired by three forget-me-nots
encapsulating the pain and wishes of abductees, detainees, prisoners
of war, and their families, was contributed by an artist Nanan Kang,
dubbed the first professional window painter in Korea, together with
curator Yeji Kim.
At the opening ceremony, Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho, through
his congratulatory remarks, expressed his hope that “North Korean
residents are not left out in creating diverse cultures and in
enjoying them freely and democratically within the foundation of
‘cultural democracy.’”
Minister Kim also conveyed his wishes for the families of abductees,
detainees, and POWs to “find some solace and enjoy cultural
experiences through the garden show.”
Families of abductees, detainees, and POWs, along with Unification
Minister Kim Yung Ho, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, Ambassador for
International Cooperation on North Korean Human Rights Lee Shinhwa,
and other officials from embassies, attended the unveiling ceremony of
the Garden of the Three Forget-me-not Blossoms and conveyed their
congratulations and anticipation.
Going forward, the Ministry of Unification plans to organize several
public participation events, such as “reading letters from the
families of abductees and mini concerts,” during the exhibition period
to bring the public’s attention to the issues of abductees, detainees,
and POWs.
