In honour of those who fought for my homeland's freedom, this page features a tribute reflecting their legacy.
In August 1910, the Korean Empire was forcefully annexed by the Japanese Empire by means of the unlawful Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty.
The Koreans remained oppressed under colonial rule for the subsequent 35 years. Their culture was suppressed, their language was prohibited, and their history was manipulated.
Many risked their lives for freedom. However, they were taken to jail, tortured, and murdered.
Yet, the spirit of the Korean people remained unbroken.
On 15 August 1945, liberation finally came with the end of World War II.
However, freedom was not without its costs. The scars of occupation ran deep, and the path to rebuilding our country was slow and painful.
Today, we Koreans call the day of liberation 광복절 (Gwang-bok jeol), "the day we regained the light."
We remember not only the day of liberation, but the numerous sacrifices that made it possible. We honour the heroes who suffered, the ones who resisted, and those who died so that future generations would live in a liberated Korea.
15 August, 2025
Myung-Joon Kang
In gratitude to those who sacrificed for our free country.
