Gwangju Mayor Park Kwan-yeol emphasized on Liberation Day that "today's freedom and prosperity are a precious legacy built on the noble sacrifices of our forebears."
On this day, Mayor Park made his remarks during the '81st Liberation Day Celebration' held at the city hall's Suwon Hall, attended by over 400 people, including local lawmakers, city council members, Lee Kang-se, head of the Gwangju chapter of the Korean Liberation Association, and members of veterans' organizations.
Mayor Park reiterated the importance of reflecting on the historical significance of liberation with citizens and expressed his commitment to advancing Gwangju into a "greater Gwangju" by inheriting the independence spirit of the forebears.
Before the celebration, Mayor Park visited the March 1st Independence Movement Monument to pay tribute to the noble sacrifices of the patriots who dedicated themselves to restoring national sovereignty.
The subsequent celebration featured opera and musical performances themed around national liberation, sharing the meaning of liberation with the attendees. There was also a moment to honor individuals who contributed to regional development and the spirit of patriotism.
After listening to commemorative speeches from the head of the Gwangju chapter of the Korean Liberation Association and other dignitaries, attendees sang the Liberation Day song and shouted "Manse" together, sharing the joy of liberation.
In his address, Mayor Park highlighted liberation as a valuable historical foundation that has made today's freedom and prosperity possible.
He stated, "I hope this gathering serves as a meaningful time for all citizens to reflect on the true meaning of liberation and unite for the proud future of South Korea and the advancement of a greater Gwangju."
This reflects Mayor Park's vision of connecting regional development and a citizen-centered future with historical values, encouraging everyone to remember past sacrifices while working together to shape the future.
Moreover, the atmosphere among citizens celebrating Liberation Day was particularly vibrant.
Citizens who attended the event honored the noble sacrifices of the forebears with the national flag and reflected on the precious meaning of liberation.
By participating in the Liberation Day song and shouting "Manse," they internalized the importance of the nation and shared the joy of liberation.
Additionally, the event, attended by multiple generations, showcased how citizens naturally shared the historical significance.
Mayor Park announced plans to operate a special exhibition of 'Dokdo photos and historical maps' in the city hall lobby throughout August, aiming to make the history and significance of Dokdo accessible to citizens.
This exhibition will display historical materials and maps of Dokdo, allowing citizens and visitors to explore its historical value and enhance their understanding of history.
Meanwhile, Mayor Park hopes that this Liberation Day event will serve as an opportunity for citizens to remember the history of the independence movement and the sacrifices of the forebears, while also considering the future of the community and the nation.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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