Gumi City Reaffirms Commitment
to Inheriting the Spirit of Patriotism
On July 31, the city of Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, held a memorial ceremony at the Jang Jinhong Memorial Hall in Okgyedong, Gumi, to commemorate the 95th anniversary of the martyrdom of Jang Jinhong and to honor his noble spirit of sacrifice.
The 95th Memorial Ceremony for Martyr Jang Jinhong was held. Gumi City pledged to uphold the spirit of patriotism. Photo by Kwon Byunggeon
The event was attended by Jang Sangkyu, the family representative, Kim Youngsoo, head of the Gumi chapter of the Liberation Association, as well as key local figures and citizens, who paid tribute with floral offerings and moments of silence, reflecting on the spirit of patriotism.
Jang Jinhong was born in Gumi in 1895. He joined the secret independence organization Gwangbokdan, provided military training to young people, and devoted his entire fortune to international advocacy, dedicating himself to the anti-Japanese independence movement.
In particular, in 1927, he carried out acts of armed resistance by throwing bombs at the Daegu branch of the Bank of Joseon and other Japanese institutions, widely publicizing the Korean people's determination for independence.
Even after his arrest, he endured severe torture and protected his comrades until the end. When sentenced to death on appeal, he shouted "Long live Korean independence!" in court and faced his execution with unwavering resolve, leaving a profound legacy that resonates to this day.
At the memorial, Gumi Mayor Kim Jangho stated, "This year marks the meaningful 80th anniversary of liberation," and added, "It is thanks to the sacrifices and dedication of patriotic forebears like Jang Jinhong that we enjoy today's freedom and peace."
To strengthen support for national patriots and uphold the spirit of national defense, Gumi City has significantly increased its veterans' affairs budget from 3.5 billion won in 2022 to 7.9 billion won this year.
Additionally, the city plans to raise the honor allowance for veterans to a maximum of 300,000 won per month and expand youth education projects, including the production of a musical and webtoon about Jang Jinhong's life and the establishment of an e-Independence Movement Memorial Hall.
Mayor Kim emphasized, "By attracting the Defense Innovation Cluster, we will transform Gumi into a hub of the defense industry. Through the semiconductor-specialized complex and education development zones, we will build a Gumi where all citizens can enjoy prosperity and happiness. We will do our utmost to pass on the strong and just nation that Jang Jinhong dreamed of to future generations."
Gumi, the hometown of numerous independence activists including Jang Jinhong, Hwangsan Heo Wi, and Park Heegwang, is renowned for its patriotic heritage. This memorial ceremony has once again highlighted the importance of inheriting the spirit of patriotism and historical education.
After the 95th anniversary memorial service for martyr Jang Jinhong, attendees are taking a group commemorative photo. Gumi City pledged to carry on the spirit of patriotism. Photo by Kwon Byunggun
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