Lessons from Jeju Island: Restoring Public Memory for Reparations, Healing, and Restoration

Author: Carlton Waterhouse ( Professor Law School, Howard University, U.S.) Abstract The Jeju 4.3 massacre represents a tragedy for the Korean people and the world. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO registered the records of the tragic massacre on its Memory of the World Register in April of this year. The records made up of victims' statements and the truth and reconciliation process following the civilian massacres include over 14600 pieces. Through the development of these records and their subsequent registration by UNESCO, Jeju Island continues to share it rich lessons on truth, reconciliation, reparations and restoration with the rest of the world. This paper explores the powerful legacy of the post massacre public healing process. To do so, the paper reflects on reparations and reconciliation efforts worldwide and the unique contribution that Jeju 4.3 social healing process teaches about moving forward after violent tragedy. It maintains that the ongoing reconciliation, reparations, and restoration process in Jeju provides a critical example for transitional justice and community restoration for the United States and around the world.