New Agenda of the Family Federation Explained to Korea Economic Daily | September 16 2013 The following is an interview of Dr. Chang Shik Yang, president of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification in Korea by Korea Economic Daily reported on September 12, 2013. Economic Daily: You had a deep connection with Rev. Sun Myung Moon. When he was alive what kind person was he? Dr. Chang Shik Yang, president of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification in Korea, is pictured being interviewed by Mr. In Han Choi, news director of The Korea Economic Daily, a widely read newspaper among educated elites. Dr. Yang: “Rev. Moon was a Korean but also a global citizen. He was the founder of a religion, but his work exceeded religion. Last month when I was guiding the first year commemorative anniversary of his departure, I realized anew his love for humanity. Rev. Moon always shared his love without discrimination.” Economic Daily: What is the difference between the Unification Church, which Rev. Moon was leading, and the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification now? Dr. Yang: “Rev. Moon dreamed of ‘world peace through creating ideal families.’ Ideal family means the family that lives harmoniously with grandparents, parents and children. We changed the name of our organization to emphasize this idea as a foundation. Basically we are going down the same path.” Economic Daily: Family Federation is focusing on service to the public. Is this to support the vision of ideal family? Dr. Yang: “We are focusing on offering scholarships and supporting inter-ethnic marriages in order to inherit Rev. Moon’s vision. Dr. Hak Ja Han is supporting the students with a motherly heart. It is correct that our goal is to establish a culture of ideal families.” Economic Daily: Even with the changed name [from Unification Church to Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU)], there is the word ‘Unification’ in it. How is the business in North Korea going? Dr. Yang: “We are looking for a new field in which to cooperate [with the North]. We are looking for the way that is still business but to help North Korea to become a global economic power. We found high ethical standards in North Korea when we were operating Peace Motors there. When North Korea gains access to the global market, they will be able to get into global heavy industry.” Economic Daily:-How do you see the forthcoming relationship between North and South Korea? Dr. Yang: “I think it is very bright. It is time for North Korea to come out from its closed ideology to meet the world. During this time, it is a relief that Kaesong Industry is running again. [The Kaesong Industrial complex in North Korea re-opened for business on Sept. 16, 2013.] The tension between the North and the South is eased a little, and now they are restarting the reunions for the separated families.” Economic Daily: The Family Federation has been communicating with North Korea even during the periods of tension. Why did North Korea accept the communications? Dr. Yang: “North Korea is an ideological nation with a religious character. We should treat North Korea as a religious nation even more so than any nation guided by a fanatical religion. We shouldn’t press against their self-esteem. The reason why our government had a difficult time talking with North Korea is because they didn’t see it this way. When you deal with North Korea, you need to show the respect.” Translated by Lymhwa Kim for the Family Federation News Team in New York
Posted on: Wed, 18 Sep 2013 01:13:27 +0000