Independence Movement Day in South Korea ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Independence Movement Day in South Korea and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Independence Movement Day in South Korea and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Independence Movement Day commemorates the March 1st Movement of 1919, when Koreans protested against Japanese colonial rule. The holiday is also known as Samil Independence Movement Day, as “samil” means “three one” in Korean.
The movement began with a peaceful demonstration in Seoul, which was quickly suppressed by the Japanese authorities. However, the protests soon spread to other cities and towns across the country. Over two million people are estimated to have participated in the movement.
The Japanese government responded harshly to the uprising, arresting and executing many of the participants. However, the movement was a watershed moment in the struggle for Korean independence, and its spirit lives on in modern Korea.