Reflections on the 15th Anniversary of the Cheonan Incident

Fifteen years have passed since the tragic sinking of the Cheonan on March 26, 2010, which resulted in the loss of 46 brave soldiers. On March 18, a group of military cadets visited the West Sea Defense Hall in Pyeongtaek to observe the remnants of the Cheonan. However, attempts to interview families of the fallen and surviving soldiers have been met with reluctance and refusal. Many expressed feelings of fatigue and disillusionment, stating, 'We want to live quietly' and 'What has changed after 15 years?' The emotional toll of the incident continues to weigh heavily on those affected, with many feeling marginalized and fearful of public scrutiny. The ongoing political division in South Korea has further complicated their experiences, as the military, which should be treated with respect, has become a target of political strife. The families of the fallen soldiers, including those of Sergeant Jo Cheon-hyung and Chief Warrant Officer Kim Tae-seok, have chosen to remain silent, citing the pain of revisiting the past and the lack of meaningful change over the years. The psychological impact on survivors is profound, with a staggering 91% diagnosed with PTSD, far exceeding rates among veterans of the Vietnam and Iraq wars. As the nation prepares to commemorate the Cheonan incident and the 10th West Sea Defense Day, the stories of these heroes and their families remain largely untold, overshadowed by political narratives and conspiracy theories. The need for recognition and support for these individuals is more pressing than ever, as they continue to grapple with their trauma in a society that often overlooks their sacrifices.