Geumcheon-gu held a ceremony Monday to mark the 81st anniversary of Korea's Liberation Day, organized by the Korean Liberation Association's Geumcheon-gu chapter at the grand hall on the 12th floor of the district office, the district said.
The event was organized to honor the sacrifices of independence martyrs and patriots who devoted themselves to liberating Korea from Japanese colonial rule, and to promote the historical significance of liberation and the spirit of patriotism.
About 120 people attended, including the head of the Korean Liberation Association's Seoul branch, chapter presidents from all 18 of Seoul's autonomous districts, descendants of independence patriots, and members of veterans' organizations. Participants paid tribute to the sacrifice and dedication of independence fighters and shared in the meaning of the 81st anniversary.
The ceremony opened with a celebratory performance, followed by a commemorative program and a three-round "manse" cheer. Attendees joined their voices in the cheer, sharing in the joy of liberation and uniting in their love of country.
The district is also continuing projects to publicize the contributions of independence patriots and carry forward the spirit of the independence movement. Through patriotic history education programs for residents, the district raises awareness of the local independence movement, and it operates a community learning program run with descendants of independence patriots, giving residents the opportunity to hear their stories firsthand.
The district is also working to honor those who sacrificed and served for the country. It continues to run a funeral support service for national merit recipients to ensure a dignified farewell, and plans to pursue a range of additional veterans' welfare projects, including maintenance of the memorial monument honoring war veterans.
"I hope this Liberation Day ceremony serves as an occasion to reflect once more on the meaning of liberation and to remember the precious spirit of sacrifice shown by those who devoted themselves to this country," district mayor Choi Ki-chan said. "We will continue to strengthen support for independence patriots and their families, and work to spread the values of patriotism and veterans' welfare throughout our community."
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