Mayor Lee Donghwan: "Embracing the Noble Spirit of Our Ancestors, We Will Continue to Pursue Challenge and Innovation"

Honoring the Spirit of Liberation Day
Goyang Special City Holds the 80th Anniversary Ceremony
Remembering the Sacrifice of Independence Patriots and Building a Better Future

Goyang Special City in Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Lee Donghwan) held a ceremony at Goyang City Cultural Center on the 15th to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day, honoring the noble patriotism of the nation's forefathers and reflecting on the significance of Liberation Day.

Lee Donghwan, mayor of Goyang Special City, is delivering a congratulatory speech at the 80th Liberation Day celebration held at the Goyang City Arts Center on the 15th. Provided by Goyang Special City

Approximately 300 people attended the ceremony, including Lee Donghwan, Mayor of Goyang, Kim Unnam, Chair of the Goyang City Council, the head of the Goyang branch of the Liberation Association, members of the Liberation Association, heads of veterans' organizations, and representatives of related institutions.

The event began with the national ceremony, followed by commemorative speeches, awards for distinguished individuals, congratulatory addresses, the singing of the Liberation Day song, and a collective "Manse" cheer.

In his congratulatory speech, Mayor Lee Donghwan expressed his gratitude to those who joined in celebrating this meaningful day marking the 80th anniversary of liberation. He stated, "The noble spirit of our ancestors still lives on in our hearts and has become the foundation for the freedom and prosperity of the Republic of Korea today."

He went on to emphasize Goyang City's historical significance, saying, "The area around the current Ilsan Station and Ilsan Market served as a gateway to Manchuria and a secret meeting place for anti-Japanese activists, while the Manse Movement at Hangju Ferry and other historical traces of our ancestors continue to strengthen Goyang as a resilient community."

Lee Donghwan, mayor of Goyang Special City, and attendees are shouting "Manse" together. Photo by Goyang Special City

He also quoted the words of Thomas An Jung-geun, who demonstrated an immense sense of responsibility for his country and people through his sacrifice: "I only sought to accomplish good deeds by sacrificing myself as a duty to the nation." Mayor Lee called on citizens to continue supporting Goyang Special City in its relentless pursuit of challenge and innovation, bearing the heavy responsibility of building a better future.

As part of the celebration, the Goyang City Boys and Girls Choir delivered a moving and joyful performance by singing "You Can Do It" and "Butterfly."

A city official stated, "We will continue to uphold the spirit of Liberation Day and work even harder for the development of our community and the happiness of our citizens."

Goyang City also plans to honor the sacrifices and contributions of independence patriots and their descendants and ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.