Gwangju University Postpones All '40th Anniversary Celebration Events' Due to COVID-19 Impact

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Yoon Jamin] Gwangju University (President Kim Hyuk-jong) has postponed all events commemorating its 40th anniversary due to the prolonged impact of COVID-19.

Gwangju University announced on the 9th that the 'commemorative ceremony' and 'banquet event,' originally scheduled for the 13th of next month to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of Hosim Academy and the 40th anniversary of the university's establishment, have been postponed until next year.

Gwangju University judged that gathering many people was inappropriate amid the current situation requiring the practice of 'social distancing' to prevent and block the spread of COVID-19.

Commemorative performances, exhibitions, academic events, and cookie and bread sharing events, which were being promoted under the theme of '40th Anniversary Thankful to the Region,' were also postponed.

Founded in 1980 during the height of the democratization movement, Gwangju University has shared the pain of the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement by, among other things, being the first in the country to erect the 'May 18th Gwangju People's Uprising Monument' on campus to mark the 10th anniversary of the movement under the harsh military regime.

Kim Hyuk-jong, president of Gwangju University, said, “Gwangju University strives to embody the founding philosophy of respecting human rights and nurturing democratic intellectuals, inspired by the spirit of the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement.” He added, “Especially this year, marking the 40th anniversary, we had prepared commemorative events to elevate Gwangju University's status both domestically and internationally with local residents, alumni, and students, but it is regrettable that all have been postponed until next year.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.