"Remember Independence Activist An Seongnyeo"... Dongmyung University Cleans Patriots' Grave Sites

Regular Maintenance and Tribute Activities by the Department of Military Science

Dongmyung University is regularly maintaining the grave site of independence activist An Seongnyeo, the younger sister of Ahn Junggeun, and is engaging in activities to clean and honor spaces dedicated to national defense and veterans.

The university has designated An Seongnyeo's grave site and the area near the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Nam-gu, Busan, as locations for biannual cleanup activities, floral tributes, and moments of silence. Through these activities, young people can experience history firsthand and reflect on the spirit of the independence movement and the value of sacrifice.

Students from Dongmyung University’s Department of Military Science are conducting a cleanup activity at the grave site of An Seongnyeo.

On July 2, students from the Department of Military Science visited An Seongnyeo's grave site, cleaned the surrounding environment, and held a floral tribute and a moment of silence. This activity was planned by Professor Na Seunghak, Dean of the College of Creative Talent and Head of the Department of Military Science at Dongmyung University, in collaboration with the Dongmyung University Institute for Military Studies, led by Professor Shin Joonsik.

Professor Shin stated, "An Seongnyeo's grave site is a space symbolizing the noble dedication of the families of independence activists," and added, "There is great educational value in having students participate directly in the cleanup activities, as it fosters patriotism and a sense of responsibility."

An Seongnyeo was a female independence activist who dedicated her entire life to the anti-Japanese movement. Although she has received relatively little attention domestically, her grave site is regarded as a meaningful historical location, especially in the context of Ahn Junggeun's family history.

Dongmyung University plans to continue offering a variety of educational programs centered around these sites to enable students to engage directly with historical facts.

President Lee Sangcheon stated, "We aim to fulfill the university's responsibility to the local community," and explained, "This continues the spirit of challenge, creativity, and service exemplified by the late Dr. Kang Seokjin, founder of Dongmyung Cultural Foundation, the parent organization of the university."

The late Dr. Kang Seokjin was a leading entrepreneur of the industrialization era who grew Dongmyung Timber into the nation's top export company. He also played a key role in founding Busan Bank and Busan Investment Finance, served as president of the Busan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and led organizations such as BBS and the Rehabilitation Protection Association, contributing significantly to the regional economy and social welfare.