Discover the Jeju April 3rd Incident
A Hidden Chapter of Korean History You Should Know
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If you're planning a trip to Jeju Island, you may already know it for its stunning beaches, Hallasan Mountain, and scenic volcanic landscapes. But did you know Jeju also holds a deep, emotional chapter in Korea’s modern history?
The Jeju April 3rd Incident (Jeju 4·3) is a story of tragedy, resistance, and remembrance. This post will help you understand the significance of this event, and why visiting the Jeju 4·3 Peace Park should be a meaningful part of your journey.
⏳ Quick Summary
Between 1948 and 1954, tens of thousands of Jeju civilians were killed during political unrest and military suppression. Today, the Jeju 4·3 Peace Park stands as a tribute to those lost and a reminder of the importance of peace and democracy.
What Was the Jeju April 3rd Incident?
The Jeju April 3rd Incident refers to a series of armed uprisings and military crackdowns that occurred from April 3, 1948 to September 21, 1954 on Jeju Island.
The unrest began when local resistance groups protested against the division of Korea and the upcoming May 10 general elections (for South Korea only), which they saw as a step toward permanent separation from the North. The Korean government at the time labeled the protests as communist insurrection and responded with heavy military force.
As a result, an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 civilians (around 10% of Jeju’s population at the time) lost their lives.
Why Is This Important Today?
For decades, the truth behind the incident was hidden. Talking about it was discouraged, and many families lived in silence. But in the 2000s, through national investigation and public efforts, the government finally acknowledged the tragedy.
In 2003, the Korean president issued an official apology, and the government built the Jeju 4·3 Peace Park as a place of remembrance and healing.
Visit Jeju 4·3 Peace Park 🕊️
Location: Bonggae-dong, Jeju City
Website: https://jeju43peace.or.kr
When you visit the park, you’ll find:
- A beautiful and serene memorial park
- A museum explaining the historical context
- Names of victims engraved on a wall of remembrance
- Art installations promoting peace and reflection
It’s not just a history lesson — it’s an emotional, eye-opening experience that will give your Jeju trip deeper meaning.
How to Get There
You can take a taxi or public bus from Jeju City. The park is well signposted and open to the public with no entrance fee.
🕘 Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
📞 Inquiries: +82-64-723-4300
Final Thoughts
Traveling is not only about sightseeing — it's about understanding the places and the people. Visiting Jeju 4·3 Peace Park gives you the chance to connect with the island’s untold stories and understand the journey from pain to peace.
Make sure to include this important stop on your Jeju itinerary — it will be one of the most moving parts of your trip.