"Comforting the Sacrificed Spirits" ... 65th Anniversary of the March 15 Uprising Commemorated in Changwon

Walking the Path Dyed in Radiant Spring Sunshine
Honoring the Noble Spirit of Democracy

Changwon Special City in Gyeongnam announced that it held the 65th anniversary ceremony of the March 15 Uprising at the National March 15 Democratic Cemetery on the 15th.

The 65th Anniversary Ceremony of the March 15 Uprising Held in Changwon.

The ceremony, held on the 15th, was themed "Walking the Path Dyed in Radiant Spring Sunshine" and was attended by approximately 600 people, including Kang Jeongae, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Hong Nampyo, Mayor of Changwon Special City, March 15 Uprising merit awardees and their families, and students. The event proceeded with commemorative performances, commemorative speeches, and the singing of the March 15 Uprising song.

Prior to the ceremony, nine key figures including the Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, heads of the March 15 organizations, and student representatives paid tribute at the National March 15 Democratic Cemetery. The attendees honored the spirits of those who sacrificed for democracy through laying flowers and silent tribute, remembering their noble intentions.

The March 15 Uprising was the first bloody democratization movement in Korea, which began on March 15, 1960, when students and citizens of Masan rose up against election fraud and dictatorship. It became the catalyst for the April 19 Revolution and laid the foundation for democracy in Korea. It was designated as a national memorial day in 2010, and since 2011, the ceremony has been held annually under the supervision of the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs.

Kang Jeongae, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, said, "I hope this ceremony will serve as a valuable opportunity to reflect on the value of honoring our patriots and the meaning of love for our country."

Hong Nampyo, Mayor of Changwon Special City, stated, "Let us remember that, 65 years ago today, the citizens of Masan created a great legacy by rising up for democracy and justice. The city will strive to inherit and further develop their dedication and noble spirit."