[국가유산지킴이기자단] Gwangbokjeol Marks 80th Anniversary at Seodaemun Prison Hall
Honoring the Sacrifices of Independence Movement Fighters
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기사입력 : 2025.08.16 12:10
[교육연합신문=이채원 학생기자]
This year’s Gwangbokjeol marks the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japan’s 35-year colonial rule.
Gwangbokjeol, or Korean National Liberation Day, is observed on August 15 each year and was first established in 1948, which marked both the third anniversary of liberation and the official founding of South Korea. It is a day to commemorate the sacrifices and efforts of independence fighters. Two important sites that symbolize this National Holiday include the Seodaemun Prison History Hall and Seodaemun Independence Park.
Numerous events were held at both locations, primarily at the Seodaemun Prison History Hall.
Historically, this location was first built and opened on October 21, 1908, under Japanese colonial rule with the intent of imprisoning independence movement activists. It underwent numerous name changes, starting as Gyeongseong Prison, then Seodaemun Prison on September 3, 1912, and finally becoming the familiar Seodaemun Independence Park on August 15, 1992. Currently, only seven buildings have been preserved for their historical significance.
Numerous independence movement fighters were imprisoned at this site. Among the thousands detained during this tragic period were notable figures such as Yu Gwan-sun, Ahn Chang-ho, Kim Gu, Yun Bong-gil, Han Yong-un, Heo Wi, Cho Bong-am, Cho Yong-soo, and Kim Dae-jung. They were imprisoned for acts of resistance, advocacy of pro-democracy ideals, and participation in political movements.
Seodaemun Independence Festival 2025 featured a wide range of events. Some of the key attractions encompassed the Liberation Eve concert, the official Liberation Day ceremony, interactive booths, stamp rallies, and guided prison museum tours.
Gwangbokjeol is a very emotional and historical day on which everyone in Korea, whether a foreigner or a citizen, takes time to remember the sacrifices that independence movement fighters made for the nation. It is highly recommended to take some time on this National Holiday to visit one or both of these locations and to recognize the tremendous impact of these prisoners.
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