Korea to award 283 independence fighters on 81st anniv. of Liberation Day

Korea intends to honor 283 former independence activists on the 81st anniversary of Liberation Day, recognizing their efforts to oppose Japan's colonial rule over the Korean Peninsula from 1910 to 1945, according to the veterans ministry. The ministry intends to bestow the Order of Merit for National Foundation upon 65 individuals, the National Foundation Medal to 29 people, and the Presidential Commendation for National Foundation to 189 others during the commemoration of August 15th, Liberation Day.

Among the recipients are three miners who, along with approximately 100 fellow miners, launched an independence protest in March 1919 by marching towards a Japanese police station. Tragically, they were subsequently executed. Choe Jun-nye, the widow of a celebrated independence figure, Kim Koo, will be acknowledged for her unwavering support of her husband during his four-year imprisonment and for her pioneering role in a female enlightenment movement by serving as a teacher at a girls' school.

The ministry will also bestow recognition upon Kim Duk-rin, a Korean-born Chinese actor widely recognized by his stage name, Jin Yan. He is being honored for his contributions to films that fostered anti-Japanese sentiments in the 1930s. The ministry aims to highlight the significant roles played by these individuals in the struggle for Korean independence.