The article reflects on the historical significance of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in South Korea, particularly as it transitions from its second phase, which concluded on November 26, to the upcoming third phase set to launch on February 26. It serves as a farewell to the second commission while looking forward to the objectives and challenges facing the third commission. The TRC was established to investigate human rights violations and ensure accountability for historical injustices, aiming to heal scars left by the past and foster a more just society for future generations. The piece also highlights the important interplay between the parliamentary oversight and the TRC's work. Specifically, it emphasizes the pivotal role of lawmakers, such as Kim Seong-hwa from the Democratic Party, as they challenge and scrutinize the TRC’s efforts during National Assembly sessions. Through incisive questioning, Kim has exposed troubling narratives around victims of state violence and revealed inconsistencies in the historical understanding of events such as the Gwangju Uprising, showcasing how thoughtful political engagement can affect public discourse on justice and memory.

As the TRC prepares for its next chapter, the article underscores the necessity of continuous dialogue, accountability, and the political courage required to confront difficult truths of the past. This becomes crucial not just for the surviving victims but also for the broader societal understanding of historical wrongs, thus ensuring that future generations recognize and learn from these lessons. The calls for repeated apologies from the state echo the sentiment that recognizing past injustices is essential for reconciliation and building a more equitable future.