107th Anniversary Ceremony of the Sangju Anti-Japanese Independence Movement

We Will Remember the Cries of That Day

Sangmaekhoe, a private volunteer group in Sangju, North Gyeongsang Province, led by Chairman Hwang Chaebeom, held a commemorative ceremony for the 107th anniversary of the Sangju Anti-Japanese Independence Movement on March 23 in front of the Anti-Japanese Independence Movement Monument in Namsan Park, Sangju City. The event was attended by about 100 people, including descendants of independence activists, heads of organizations and institutions, and citizens.

In front of the Independence Movement Monument at Namsan Park in Sangju City, descendants of independence activists, heads of organizations, and citizens held a commemorative ceremony for the 107th anniversary of the Sangju Anti-Japanese Independence Movement, followed by a commemorative photo session. Photo by Lee Hwan Kim

The Sangju Anti-Japanese Independence Movement began on March 23, 1919, at the marketplace in Sangju-eup and quickly spread throughout the region, centering on Soam-ri in Ian-myeon, Jangam-ri and Unheung-ri in Hwabuk-myeon, resulting in large and small independence rallies across the entire area.

As a result of this movement, hundreds of people were arrested by Japanese police, and dozens—including Kang Yongseok, Park Inok, Seok Seonggi, Seong Pilhwan, Seong Haesik, Song Insu, Jo Wolyeon, and Han Amhoe—were imprisoned.

The ceremony honored the noble spirit of sacrifice of the forebearers and included a report on the progress of the Sangju Anti-Japanese Independence Movement, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, presentation of awards for the promotion of patriotism and veterans' affairs, a recitation of a dedicatory poem, offerings of flowers and incense, singing of the March 1st Movement anthem, and the traditional three cheers for independence.

Deputy Mayor Oh Sangcheol stated, "I hope that today's gathering will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the history of resistance against Japanese rule, inherit the noble sacrifice and patriotism of our forebearers, unite the hearts of citizens, and become a new driving force for the development of our region."

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