Seoul:Only three researchers have been assigned by the veterans ministry to collect and review materials related to Korea's independence movement against Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule, according to recent data. This revelation has sparked concerns about the adequacy of resources allocated to manage the extensive historical records.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry's Patriots and Veterans Archives Management Division comprises 37 personnel. However, just three individuals are dedicated to handling the records pertaining to the country's independence movement. The ministry typically collects about 300,000 records annually, meaning each researcher is responsible for approximately 100,000 records.

This news follows the ministry's announcement of plans to honor over 600 previously unrecognized independence activists this year, up from 502 in 2025.

Additionally, data provided to Rep. Kim Joon-hyung of the minor Rebuilding Korea Party indicate that 21 personnel are tasked with reviewing records of activists who have not yet received state honors. These officials are responsible for submitting records to an evaluation committee that decides on the merit of state recognition for these individuals.

A ministry official highlighted the ongoing issue of personnel shortages, emphasizing the increasing volume of records related to the independence movement. This accumulation has led to more potential activists being identified and recognized.

As of August, the ministry has identified and honored 408 independence fighters. Despite an estimated 3 million people having participated in the fight for independence, only 19,059 have been officially recognized and awarded state honors, representing less than 1 percent of the estimated total.