Gwangju Council Member Lee Myungno Visits Overseas Sites of the Korean Independence Movement

Visit to France and Ireland to Study Independence Movements
Participation in the "Independence Heroes Academy, 2nd Class" Hosted by the Liberation Association

Lee Myungno, a member of the Gwangju Metropolitan Council, visited Paris, France, and Dublin, Ireland, from the 12th to the 19th to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation. During the visit, he explored historical sites related to the Korean independence movement and participated in an academic field study comparing and researching the local independence movements. Provided by Gwangju Metropolitan Council

Lee Myungno, a member of the Gwangju Metropolitan Council (Democratic Party of Korea, Seo District 3), personally visited overseas sites of the Korean independence movement to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation.

From the 12th to the 19th, Assemblyman Lee visited Paris, France, and Dublin, Ireland, where he explored historical sites related to the Korean independence movement and participated in an academic field study comparing and researching the local independence movements.

This visit was part of the "Independence Heroes Academy, 2nd Class" program, organized and hosted by the Liberation Association (President Lee Jongchan). The delegation consisted of 16 members, most of whom were descendants of independence patriots, except for Assemblyman Lee and Professor Hwang Seonik of Kookmin University. In celebration of the 80th anniversary of liberation, the Liberation Association expanded the program, which had previously focused on descendants of independence patriots, to include future talents. The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs provided support for the expenses.

The delegation, led by Yoo Min, Director of Planning and Coordination at the Liberation Association, installed a commemorative plaque at the hotel in Paris where the "Koryo News Agency," a provisional government media and communications institution where Governor Seo Younghae was active, was located. In Dublin, Ireland, they presented a certificate of appreciation to the Missionary Society of St. Columban for its contributions to the independence movement.

They also paid respects at the missionary cemetery where the late Father Noel Cheon, who made a significant contribution to the welfare of people with disabilities in Gwangju by establishing Korea’s first group home for people with disabilities, is buried. The delegation met with embassy officials from various countries to discuss ways to strengthen solidarity and exchange with Korea.

Through this academic field study, the Liberation Association aimed to compare and research the independence movements of Korea and various European countries, and to provide descendants and future generations with an opportunity to inherit and promote the spirit of independence by directly tracing the footsteps of Korean independence activists abroad.

On the 22nd, Assemblyman Lee stated, "By witnessing and experiencing the independence movements of France and Ireland firsthand, I was able to reflect anew on the value and global significance of our own independence movement. I will continue to carry on the spirit of independence by honoring the devotion of our forebears and working to restore their honor." He added, "With a direct flight route between Gwangju and Dublin scheduled to open in 2026, I will also actively seek ways to promote exchange and cooperation between the two cities."