National Human Rights Commission of Korea Annual Report 2021 in the National Finance Act its status as an independent organization for budget formulation; its opinion be heard with regards to the Universal Periodic Review; it fosters human rights educators and establishes the Human Rights Training Institute; and it introduces a national human rights statistics system. The proposal also incorporates added functions, including institution of military human rights protection officers and on-site investigations in military units; refinement of definition of sexual harassment; implementation of the “see but not hear” principle during onsite investigations; and increased authorities in terms of investigation and remedial functions, including extension of the statute of limitations for petitioned cases. It also provides for increased cooperation with external organizations, including establishment of a system for cooperation with and support of local governments and the civil society. In December, the NHRCK Act was amended with new provisions on military human rights protection officers and on-site inspections in military units. However, more legislative effort is needed to strengthen the expertise and independence of the Commission. NHRCK 20th Anniversary Celebration and publication of the 20-Year History Book On November 25, the Commission held its 20th anniversary ceremony at the Cultural Hall of Myeongdong Cathedral under the catchphrase of “Twenty Years in Human Rights, Together Again.” The ceremony, which was attended by President Moon Jae-in and other figures, looked at progress made over the past 20 years and conveyed words of appreciation and respect to those involved in protecting and promoting human rights through the 2021 Korea Human Rights Award. President Moon emphasized that “twenty years ago, we could not make a framework act on human rights or the prohibition of discrimination but were only able to include human rights standards within the National Human Rights Commission Act of Korea that codifies the organization. This is a task that must be overcome in order for us to become an advanced country in terms of human rights.” The chairperson said, “the NHRCK was able to make changes and progress for the past 20 years, thanks to the commitment, solidarity and support shown by many towards the work the Commission does to make improvements on human rights in Korea.” At the ceremony, the Commission declared that it would take the lead in implementing pending human rights tasks as an independent state organization, and communicated and cooperated actively with outside representatives to encourage human rights efforts at the grassroots level. 30