It was a powerful image – a black-and-white photograph of a bloodied student being attacked by a paratrooper medic. This photo, taken by Na Kyung Taek, was the first to break through the military blockade in Gwangju, South Korea in 1980, revealing the harsh suppression of what would later be known as the Gwangju Democratization Movement. Despite the significance of his work, Na remained anonymous for years, fearing retaliation from the oppressive regime led by Chun Doo-hwan.
Na, now 75, worked as a photojournalist in Gwangju for four decades until his retirement in 2007. He captured the brutality of the government crackdown during the Gwangju uprising, risking his life to expose the truth. His photographs were eventually shared with foreign news media, shedding light on the atrocities committed by the military.
Despite the lack of recognition, Na remains dedicated to preserving the memory of the Gwangju uprising. He continues to educate others through lectures and exhibitions, ensuring that the truth of what happened in Gwangju is not forgotten. His photographs have been recognized as important historical documents, with an archive of his work included in Unesco’s “Memory of the World” program.
Na’s bravery and dedication to his work have left a lasting impact on South Korea’s history. His photographs serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy, and his efforts continue to inspire others to seek truth and justice.