Independence Hall to Hold Special Exhibition on "The Korean Independence Movement and Buddhism"

Special Exhibitions on Ethnic Religions Scheduled for October
and Christianity in December

Declaration of Independence of March 1st. (Provided by the Independence Hall)

The Independence Hall of Korea will hold a special exhibition titled "The Korean Independence Movement and Buddhism" at the House of the Nation from April 22 to May 18.

This exhibition has been organized to highlight the diverse activities of Buddhists who participated in the independence movement and to reflect on the spirit of independence through their stories.

The exhibition is divided into three sections: Part 1, "Resisting Religious Oppression by Imperial Japan"; Part 2, "Resisting Imperial Japan Together with the People"; and Part 3, "Devotion to the Independence Movement Beyond Temples."

Part 1 explores activities aimed at refining and popularizing Buddhist thought in opposition to Japan’s religious control policies. Part 2 features the armed resistance at Beopjeongsa Temple in Jeju and the March 1st Movement, highlighting how Buddhists joined with the people in resisting colonial rule.

Part 3 presents the independence activities of Buddhists who, after the March 1st Movement, devoted themselves to diplomatic and propaganda efforts, armed resistance, and cultural preservation movements both within Korea and abroad for the sake of the nation.

The exhibition features a total of 66 materials, including memoirs, personal accounts, and court records. There are also interactive corners where visitors can read books that reflect the philosophies of Buddhist independence activists and make bookmarks.

An official from the Independence Hall stated, "We hope this exhibition will help people remember the dedication and spirit of independence shown by Buddhists."

Meanwhile, the Independence Hall plans to continue highlighting the contributions of religions and religious figures to the independence movement by holding special exhibitions on ethnic religions in October and Christianity in December this year.