Stress balls, runs, cosplay: How young Koreans are marking Liberation Day in their own unique ways

Young Koreans are marking Liberation Day this Saturday through unique and playful methods. Kim Ha-eun, a 33-year-old "fangirl" of King Sejong, is hosting a "Wipe Out Pro-Japanese Collaborators Café — Mock all Traitors!" event at a rented café in Okbaraji Alley near Seoul's Independence Gate. The event, inspired by K-pop fandom culture, features stress balls, fidget clickers, and tea coasters shaped like historical figures and symbols, all aimed at educating and entertaining attendees.

Kim believes that commemorating Liberation Day can be both serious and fun, emphasizing the importance of understanding Korea's past. The event will also highlight the contributions of independence fighters by providing names and symbols of those who fought against Japanese collaborators.

In addition to the café event, a "Liberation Day" Comic World convention is taking place, allowing fans to cosplay as independence fighters or righteous soldiers. The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs and SK Telecom have also created new running courses that follow the paths of Korea's freedom fighters, encouraging runners to honor their legacy by participating in the 815 Run charity event.

This event, organized by Habitat for Humanity Korea, raises funds for home improvements for the descendants of independence activists, demonstrating how younger generations are engaging with history in innovative ways.