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The Echoes of March 1st, 1919, Resound in Seodaemun

The Korean Tradition

by Julie Yoon 2025. 3. 1. 15:20

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The Echoes of March 1st, 1919, Resound in Seodaemun

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 106th anniversary of the March 1st Movement was commemorated with grandeur at Seodaemun Independence Park and the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

 

This historic event, hosted by Seodaemun District and its mayor, Lee Sung-heon, was a powerful reminder of Korea’s fight for independence and a celebration of its enduring spirit of freedom and peace.

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

 

 

A Tribute to Korea’s Independence Struggle

 

 

The March 1st Movement, which took place in 1919, was a pivotal moment in Korean history. Sparked by the declaration of independence read by prominent nationalists, the movement saw thousands of Koreans rise against Japanese colonial rule.

 

Despite the brutal suppression by the Japanese authorities, this mass protest became a cornerstone of Korea’s eventual liberation in 1945.

 

The event in Seodaemun, titled “Seodaemun, The Cry of March 1st, 1919”, honored this historic moment with the participation of over 30,000 citizens, alongside prominent figures from politics, academia, arts, and sports.

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

 

 

 

A Two-Day Commemoration with Historic Reenactments and Cultural Experiences

 

 

Spanning from March 1st to 2nd, the event featured a range of activities designed to educate and engage the public in Korea’s rich history of resistance and independence.

 

On the first day, a solemn ceremony began at 10 AM at the Seodaemun Prison History Museum, including a tribute at the Memorial Monument, a reenactment of the independence movement, a reading of the March 1st Declaration of Independence, and a unified chant of "Manse!" (Long Live Korea!).

 

Following this, a 350-meter-long march from the museum to the Independence Gate symbolized the patriotic protests of 1919. A highlight of the day was the hoisting of a giant 25-meter Taegeukgi (Korean national flag) at the park’s central flagpole, reinforcing the significance of the occasion.

 

Throughout both days, from 10 AM to 6 PM, a variety of interactive programs and booths were available, including:

  • Seodaemun Independence Golden Bell Quiz: A knowledge competition where 50 teams tested their understanding of Korea’s independence history.
  • Independence Reading Challenge: Participants read the March 1st Declaration on stage, reliving the words that ignited a nation.
  • March 1st Movement Flash Mob: A performance featuring traditional hanbok costumes and symbolic props, bringing history to life.
  • Hands-on Activities: Visitors crafted Taegeuk fans, magnets, and headbands, engaged in face painting, and made traditional wooden spinning tops and kites inspired by independence symbols.

For those looking to learn more about the historical significance of the site, guided docent tours of the Seodaemun Prison History Museum were available, offering deep insights into the struggles and sacrifices of Korean patriots who endured imprisonment for their beliefs.

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

 

 

Food and Music: A Celebration of Korean Culture

 

 

Beyond educational activities, the event also provided a taste of Korean culinary traditions.

 

Local vendors and food stalls sold popular Korean street foods such as hot dogs, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and traditional rice cakes from local markets.

 

On the evening of March 2nd, a special concert at Yonsei University’s Centennial Memorial Hall featured performances by the Seodaemun Orchestra, conductor Shim Sin-ik, pianist Yoo Young-wook, and baritone Yang Jun-mo.

 

This grand finale beautifully blended music and history, celebrating Korea’s resilience and progress.

 

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

 

 

Seodaemun: A Living Monument to Korea’s Independence

 

 

Mayor Lee Sung-heon expressed his hopes that this event would not only honor the sacrifices of independence activists but also encourage people to reflect on the values of freedom and peace throughout the year.

 

“Seodaemun Independence Park is not just a site for annual commemorations. I hope it becomes a place where people visit regularly to learn and remember,” he stated.

 

The event underscored the importance of keeping history alive. With South Korea approaching the 80th anniversary of its liberation in 2025, discussions have intensified around developing Seodaemun as a historical and cultural education hub.

 

The Seodaemun Policy Advisory Committee, composed of experts in diplomacy, security, and history, is working on initiatives to enhance national identity through historical education programs and innovative content related to Korea’s independence movement.

 

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

 

 

Preserving History for Future Generations

 

 

The March 1st Movement was more than just a protest—it was the beginning of a national awakening.

 

The voices that cried out for independence in 1919 continue to echo in Seodaemun today.

 

By transforming Seodaemun into a historical theme park, Korea can ensure that future generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made for their nation’s freedom.

 

As Korea moves forward as a leading global nation, the commemoration of its past remains crucial.

 

By engaging in historical experiences, both Koreans and international visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the country’s journey toward democracy and sovereignty.

 

For those seeking to experience Korean history firsthand, a visit to Seodaemun Independence Park and the Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a must.

 

As the spirit of March 1st, 1919, continues to inspire, Seodaemun stands as a powerful symbol of Korea’s unwavering pursuit of independence and peace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Source : https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/468/0001129293

 

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