Namyangju City Holds 15th Anniversary Celebration of Sakhalin Korean Settlement

Namyangju City in Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Joo Kwangdeok) announced on December 8 that it held the "15th Anniversary Celebration of Sakhalin Korean Settlement in Namyangju" at The Neulbom on December 7.

Namyangju City held the "15th Anniversary Celebration of Sakhalin Korean Settlement in Namyangju" at The Neulbom on the 7th. Provided by Namyangju City

This event was organized to reflect on the pain and sacrifices of Korean compatriots who were forcibly relocated to Sakhalin during the Japanese colonial period, and to commemorate the 15-year journey of building new lives and putting down roots in Korean society after their return.

More than 70 people attended the event, including about 40 Sakhalin Koreans and distinguished guests. The program included a commemorative ceremony, congratulatory performances, the presentation of certificates of appreciation, and awards, providing an opportunity for participants to reflect on the past years and share moments of renewed hope.

The commemorative ceremony was attended by Lee Sujin, President of the Sakhalin Korean Compatriots Association, Vice Mayor Hong Jiseon, as well as provincial and city council members. The ceremony began with an opening declaration and the national pledge, followed by expressions of gratitude and congratulations to the compatriots.

After the ceremony, there were celebratory performances and recreational activities. The attendees enjoyed a warm time together, reconnecting and reminiscing about their memories from the time of settlement.

President Lee Sujin said, "I would like to take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to the city and all those involved for helping the Sakhalin Koreans settle stably in Namyangju, despite the long hardships and adversities experienced due to forced relocation."

Vice Mayor Hong Jiseon stated, "It is meaningful to be able to provide a space to remember and honor the historical pain and long journey experienced by the Sakhalin Koreans. I hope today's ceremony will encourage each other's lives and serve as a moment to foster hope for the future."

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