Gwangbokjeol: The National Liberation Day of Korea

Rosa Gulliver of TINYGMUSIC | August 15, 2023

Korea celebrates Independence Day on August 15th, one of the most significant days for Koreans. It is known as "Gwangbokjeol," which translates to "bringing back the light" in Korean. The combination of three letters, "Gwang," "Bok," and "Jeol," means "light," "return," and "festival day." These words symbolise the restoration of national independence lost for 35 years under Japanese rule.

Why is Gwangbokjeol special?

Liberation Day marks the end of Japanese colonial rule in Korea and signifies its independence, making it a significant turning point in Korea’s history. This day marks the country’s journey towards independence and democracy. A new chapter opened in Korea's history, marking the beginning of a journey towards freedom and national unity.

Many people suffered and were killed during the colonial period under Japanese rule. Some voluntarily gave up their lives in exchange for the liberation of Korea. This period in Korean history is quite dark and continues to shape Korean society and politics today.

Gwangbokjeol is also one of the few public holidays that is shared with North Korea, where they also celebrate “Liberation Day” on August 15. The Japanese colonial rule from 1910-1945 was a dark period for unified Korea at that time. Japanese colonialism was often harsh, as Japan exerted direct rule directly through military force, suppressing any Korean resistance forcefully. This led to a nationwide protest and the establishment of “The March 1st Movement” in 1919, which advocated for national independence. March 1 is also celebrated as a modern national holiday to commemorate the 33 Korean nationalists and students who took part in this declaration of independence.

Yu Gwansun (1902-1920) is the most famous figure who became the symbol of the March 1 Movement (1919), which played a significant role in regaining Korea’s independence.

Yu Gwansun (1902-1920) Photo Credit: Wikipedia

She was only a 16-year-old student when she organised the March 1 Movement in her hometown. In the demonstration on March 1st, her family members were brutally killed by Japanese soldiers, and she was imprisoned.

Even though she was locked up in prison, she continued to declare the liberation of Korea. However, due to the harsh torture, her 16-year-old body could not withstand, and she passed away in prison.

It was during the Japanese wartime mobilisation of 1937-45 that Korea suffered the most during colonisation, as Korean men were forced to fight on the frontline for Japan or were sent to work in Japanese factories, while many young Korean women were drafted as “Comfort Women” for Japanese soldiers. 

In August 1945, the Japanese empire surrendered to the Allied Powers, bringing an end to World War II and Japan’s rule of Korea. On August 15, Korean leaders declared their independence and established their government.

Today, National Liberation Day, celebrates Korea’s cultural heritage and progress. In addition, Koreans celebrate it as a day of national unity and reflect on the sacrifices made in the struggle for Independence.

The places of despair

When people in Seoul were captured for the action that led to the liberation of Korea, they were sent to the Seodaemun prison, located in Seoul. Many Koreans were captured and tortured brutally in this prison.

The prison is now used as an educational place to not forget how people were treated inhumanely under Japanese colonialism. For those who are interested in learning about Korean history, this place is worth a visit. 

You can also learn more about the historical background of the anti-Japanese struggle and the historical figures during colonial rule by visiting the Independence Hall of Korea located in Cheonan. 

If you want to learn more about Korea and its history during Japanese colonial rule, you can visit Independence Hall in Cheonan or Seodaemun Prison History Hall. Both museums have information and displays that may be a bit graphic to view, but they accurately depict the history of this period. Learning more about what Korea endured during this period can help you understand and feel more connected to the culture and people of Korea.

태극기 taegeukgi (Korean flag) on the streets or in homes to commemorate Liberation Day - Photo Credit: Freepik

Across South Korea, many activities and events take place on National Liberation Day. Typically, there is an official ceremony held at Independence Hall in Cheonan or Sejong at the Sejong Centre for the Performing Arts. Also, the official “Gwangbokjeol song” (광복절 노래) is sung at official ceremonies. There may also be traditional dance and music performances at the palaces, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Deoksu Palace.

You may notice many Korean national flags (called 태극기 taegeukgi) in homes and businesses or on the streets to commemorate the day.