Seoul district marks 81st Liberation Day at historic prison complex
The red-brick walls and narrow iron grates of Seodaemun Prison have stood as stark monuments to Korea’s darkest hours under Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule. Thousands of independence advocates — from teenagers to prominent scholars — were incarcerated within its brick corridors. Today, that solemn landmark has transformed into an enduring sanctuary of civic memory, connecting generations of Koreans…
Seodaemun Prison, a symbol of Korea's colonial past, will once again serve as the focal point for the nation's annual remembrance of its Liberation Day on August 15. This year marks the 81st anniversary since the country's independence in 1945. The historic site, now the Seodaemun Prison History Hall and Seodaemun Independence Park, hosted the 2026 Seodaemun Independence and Democracy Festival, a two-day event scheduled for August 15-16.
The festival, themed "United in the Light of Liberation," aims to combine traditional remembrance with modern cultural activities. Last year's festival attracted 150,000 visitors, highlighting the enduring significance of this historic location in fostering national unity and reflection.
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- Seoul district marks 81st Liberation Day at historic prison complex koreatimes.co.kr
