Silla University Successfully Completes National Land March for 80th Anniversary of Liberation

Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Liberation
Silla University Students Walk from Busan to Dokdo,
Fostering Community Spirit and Patriotism

Silla University (President Heo Namsik) successfully completed the '2025 Silla University National Land March×Memories' from Busan to Dokdo in celebration of the 80th anniversary of Liberation.

Silla University National Land March (Ulleungdo). Provided by Silla University

As part of the university innovation support project, the '2025 Silla University National Land March×Memories' took place over five days and four nights from August 11 to 15. Forty-three students and seven faculty and staff members departed from Busan and walked all the way to Dokdo, fostering a sense of community and reflecting on the significance of the August 15 Liberation.

Silla University students on the Grand National March.

To mark the 80th anniversary of Liberation, the march started in Busan and passed through Gyeongju, Pohang, and Ulleungdo, culminating in their arrival at Dokdo on August 15. Along the way, students participated in environmental protection activities through plogging and carried out the 'Dokdo is Our Land' campaign.

In particular, by visiting Dokdo on Liberation Day, participating students were able to reflect on the value of the nation's territory and experience a meaningful boost in patriotism.

Students from Silla University visiting Dokdo on Liberation Day. Photo by Silla University

One student participant shared, "I was worried about whether I could walk such a long distance for five days, but as I walked, I created more joyful and meaningful memories than hardships. Visiting Dokdo on Liberation Day, waving the Taegeukgi and shouting 'Dokdo is our land' is a moment I will never forget."

Silla University President Heo Namsik said, "The national land march to Dokdo, marking the 80th anniversary of Liberation, must have been an especially meaningful experience for our students. I hope that through this journey, students will also walk their own paths with strength, one step at a time."

Dean of Student Affairs Kim Yanghyun said, "By sweating and communicating together with the students, we shared invaluable experiences that cannot be gained elsewhere. I hope these memories will remain in everyone's hearts for a long time."