Commemorations for the 106th anniversary of the March 1st Movement are taking center stage across South Korea, but this year's events have been marred by controversy involving key figures and political tension, raising questions on the appropriateness of attendance at official ceremonies.
On this significant date—March 1st, known as Sangiljeol, which memorializes the 1919 independence movement against Japanese colonial rule—Korea’s Independence Hall director, Kim Hyung-seok, confirmed his participation. This marks his return to official ceremonies after controversy surrounding his absence during last year's Liberation Day event. According to the Independence Hall, the commemorative ceremony will include formal speeches, as well as performances from the Black Eagles, the Republic of Korea Air Force aerobatics team, and various celebrations capturing the spirit of the historical event.
Nevertheless, local political figures from the opposition party have announced their refusal to attend the Independence Hall event, reflecting deep political divides. Representatives for the Democratic Party, including Moon Jin-seok, disclosed, "We won't be participating in any events organized by the Independence Hall." This sentiment was echoed by other notable politicians like Lee Jae-kwan and Lee Jung-moon.
Conversely, the Chungcheongnam-do branch of the Korean Liberation Association plans to host its own commemorative event concurrently, redirecting focus from the Independence Hall. They aim to pay homage to independence veterans at the provincial cultural center and have signaled their intent to participate actively in protests against President Yoon Suk-yeol planned for the same day.
The controversies surrounding the Independence Hall have roots deep within the political discourse, particularly relating to Kim Hyung-seok’s associations with the New Right movement. Following public backlash over his appointment and the subsequent withdrawal from last year’s Liberation Day ceremony, he is facing scrutiny as to whether this year's appearance is truly reflective of his commitment to the cause or merely strategic damage control.
Kim has previously expressed his intention to attend events organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety instead of the Independence Hall’s function, which left many questioning his allegiance to the institution he leads. Both the independence veterans and their surviving families, who typically attend the March 1st ceremonies, are divided over this leadership.
Members of the Liberation Association have echoed concerns. Some view Kim’s historical perspectives as out of touch, linking them to the wider discourse embraced by New Right ideologies—which they characterize as trivializing the sacrifices made during Korea’s struggle for independence. This discontent is compounded by the external factor of the weather, reportedly creating additional barriers to attendance at outdoor events.
Kim Wan-tae, the head of the Chungcheongnam-do Liberation Association, stated, "This year is particularly significant as it recognizes not only the 80th anniversary of liberation but also the 120th anniversary of the Eulsa Treaty [which stripped Korea of its diplomatic rights]. While we intended to participate actively, our decision not to attend the Independence Hall event was collective, reaching consensus to stand by our historical values."
Despite the controversy, the significance of March 1st remains undeniable. Officially recognized as one of five national holidays, the day signifies unity and the patriotic fervor embodying the struggle for independence. Historical accounts note the resonance of the March 1st demonstrations, where nationwide calls for sovereignty captured the imaginations and hearts of millions.
Events like the one at the Korean Independence Hall typically see participation from officials, veterans, and family members of independence fighters, turning the day not just commemorative but celebratory as well. This year, the Independence Hall expressed their disappointment at the choice of many members to attend alternative events, emphasizing their outreach efforts to encourage participation from veterans.
While some members are evidently opting for the assembly at the provincial level—citing the discomfort for the elderly at outdoor ceremonies, relating also to the heated political atmosphere—the decision carries weight beyond mere scheduling conflicts; it’s indicative of the fracturing political climate surrounding Korea’s commemorative practices.
Meanwhile, groups like the Anti-Japanese Independent Movement Promotion Association argue vehemently against the current regime's portrayal of historical figures and events, claiming “the presence of individuals who glorify pro-Japanese sentiments disrupts our national memory and dignity.” They plan to participate instead at the citizen assembly focusing on the push for President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment, thereby making their statement not just about past grievances, but about the current political scenario as well.
Such tensions highlight the multifaceted nature of memory and history; the March 1st celebration is not merely about remembrance, but rather, it has become interwoven with the country’s contemporary political narratives. The public presents diverging opinions on independence commemoration, juxtaposing respect for historical integrity against the backdrop of modern political strife.
These conflicting angles reveal the challenges Korea faces as it continues to navigate its historical memory alongside current events. There remains great hope among many citizens for unity and authentic remembrance, as demonstrated by their engagement on days marked by such significant historical relevance. For many, the March 1st Movement symbolizes the spirit of resistance, pride, and national identity—values they hold dear, irrespective of the prevailing political climate.