South Korea Marks 81st Liberation Day Under Theme 'Republic of Korea Where Tomorrow Shines Brighter'

The ceremony marking the 81st anniversary of Liberation Day was held at 10:00 a.m. today (August 15) at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Jongno-gu, Seoul.

This year's ceremony is themed "The Irreplaceable Republic of Korea Where Tomorrow Shines Brighter," focusing on honoring the spirit of liberation achieved by our patriotic forebears while presenting a vision for the Republic of Korea that future generations will build.

Approximately 3,000 people attended the ceremony, including patriotic activists, surviving families of independence fighters, key national figures, representatives of political parties and religious denominations, the diplomatic corps in South Korea, figures from all walks of life, citizens, and students.

The ceremony proceeds in the order of the declaration of opening, a national ceremony, a commemorative speech, the awarding of independence merit honors, a commemorative address, a congratulatory performance, the singing of the Liberation Day song, and three cheers for liberation.

During the national ceremony, actor Ha Do-kwon, who portrayed independence leader Kim Koo in the 80th Liberation Day special musical documentary "Model Prison," reads the Pledge of Allegiance, and soprano Hwang Su-mi, who won the Queen Elisabeth Competition, leads the singing of the national anthem.

The congratulatory performance features a drawing performance by virtual reality (VR) artist Peony, followed by a rendition of "ONE Dream" performed by singer Choi Yu-jung and a 40-member national choir.

The three cheers for liberation are led jointly by Liberation Association Chairman Lee Jong-chan, descendants of independence fighters, personnel in charge of three major megaprojects, and Paralympic national athletes. In addition, AI-generated video footage of patriotic forebears, including Kim Koo, is scheduled to appear on stage.

A total of 283 individuals were selected as recipients of independence merit awards.

Among them, five people, including descendants of the late Choi Jun-rye, who spearheaded women's enlightenment activities as a teacher at Anshin Girls' School in Hwanghae Province and supported the activities of the Provisional Government, take the stage.

The late Choi Jun-rye is also the wife of Kim Koo.

(Photo: Presidential Office Photo Press Corps, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.