Choi Dae-ho, the mayor of Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, expressed the importance of passing down the spirit of patriotism from our ancestors to future generations.
In commemoration of the 81st Liberation Day, Mayor Choi is organizing a meaningful event to honor the noble sacrifices of the patriots and to reflect on the historical significance of liberation with the citizens.
He stated, "On the morning of the 15th, we will hold the '81st Liberation Day Celebration' in the auditorium on the second floor of the city hall annex."
Approximately 600 attendees are expected, including members of the Liberation Association, families of independence activists, veterans' organizations, and local leaders.
The event will begin with a performance by the Capital Defense Command Military Band, followed by a national ceremony, awards for distinguished individuals, speeches, a commemorative performance by the Anyang City Youth Choir, singing of the Liberation Day song, and a cheer for independence.
This year’s celebration in Anyang is not just a commemoration but also a 'citizen participation historical and cultural event' that allows residents to engage with the local history of the independence movement and share it with future generations.
To facilitate understanding, the event will feature digital exhibitions and photo zones for citizens to learn more about the local independence movement history.
The Anyang chapter of the Liberation Association will present 'Stories of the Independence Movement with Kim Gu,' and the Independence Hall will showcase a 'Photo Exhibition of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea' to reflect on the meaning of liberation and the footsteps of our ancestors.
The commemorative exhibition has been running since the 1st, allowing citizens to engage with the history of the independence movement and the spirit of the patriots leading up to the celebration.
This initiative is expected to provide families, including children and teenagers, with a more familiar understanding of our local and national independence history.
In Anyang, the atmosphere is one of reflection on the sacrifices of our ancestors and the meaning of liberation as the region approaches Liberation Day.
For citizens, Liberation Day is more than just a public holiday; it is a day to remember that today’s freedom and peace are made possible by the sacrifices of countless independence activists and patriots.
Moreover, with exhibitions and citizen participation programs that allow residents to explore the local history of the independence movement, there is growing anticipation that parents and children will discuss history together and that young people will take an interest in their local heritage.
This aligns with Mayor Choi’s ongoing emphasis on citizen participation, communication, intergenerational empathy, honoring veteran families, and fostering unity within the community.
Mayor Choi aims to strengthen recognition for independence activists and their families while ensuring that the value of liberation is not confined to a specific generation but shared as a community value among all citizens.
Additionally, this Liberation Day serves as an opportunity to take a step further in remembering the sacrifices of our ancestors, passing down their spirit to future generations, and building a community where all citizens share the historical significance.
Following the official celebration, a luncheon will be held for members of the Liberation Association and their families to express gratitude and recognition for their contributions.
Mayor Choi stated, "Today’s Republic of Korea is built upon the noble sacrifices of the patriots and independence activists who dedicated themselves to the country’s liberation."
He added, "I hope this celebration will be a meaningful occasion for citizens to reflect on the significance of liberation and to pass down the spirit of patriotism to future generations."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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