‘이완용 스퀴시’부터 ‘815 러닝’까지…요즘 세대의 광복절 맞이

As South Korea prepares to mark its 81st anniversary of independence, young people are finding innovative ways to celebrate the day, including the controversial “this and that” (이완용 스퀴시) and “815 running” traditions. Kim Ha-eun, a 33-year-old fan of King Sejong, is organizing the first “친일파 척결 카페 매국노 조롱잔치” (Commemorative Party for Abolishing the ‘Collaborationist’ Café) on August 15th, alongside her friends.

This event merges the popular “생일카페” (Birthday Café) culture with the solemn occasion of Liberation Day. The idea is to remember the gratitude owed to the independence fighters while asking for the purging of wartime collaborators. Kim Ha-eun, a Sejong the Great fan, also reflects on the wisdom of the king's last words, "Be careful when dealing with the Japanese."

The commemorative party will take place in a café near the Independence Memorial Hall, site of a former Japanese prison where independence activists were once imprisoned. To lighten the mood, the party will feature various themed products, such as "이완용 간땡이 스퀴시" (This-That Leisure of This-That) and ‘거북선 클리커(‘딸깍’ 소리가 나는 장난감)’, among others.

The drinks will also have unique names like ‘가배리카노’(Coffee-Latte) and ‘왜국블러드 오미자차’(Chinese Tea). Kim Ha-eun emphasizes the importance of remembering the independence fighters and moving forward, a sentiment she believes resonates across all Koreans. Additionally, young people are taking inspiration from their hobbies to infuse historical significance into their celebrations.

The “코믹월드 광복전” (Comic World Liberation Day) will be held at Gimyeong Koyang Tienex from August 15th to 16th, featuring cosplay and creative exhibitions related to the theme. Despite the association with Japan, these events will still promote the holiday's message by displaying various booths dedicated to the occasion. Social media platforms are also showcasing participants dressed as independence fighters or hosting creative displays.

The Korean government and SK Telecom have also released a YouTube video featuring running routes that follow the footsteps of independence fighters. The marathon, known as “815 Run,” will take place on August 15th, with the proceeds going towards improving the living conditions of the descendants of independence fighters. Professor Seong-deok of Seoul University says that using one's own interests to pay tribute to independence fighters and the liberation of the country is a promising approach that goes beyond traditional historical education methods.