Synopsis
On the anniversary of Korea's provisional government, South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo called for national unity, reflecting on the legacy of independence fighters and the ongoing efforts to honor their contributions.Key Takeaways
- Han Duck-soo emphasizes national unity.
- Commemoration of the 1919 provisional government.
- Focus on lessons of hope and overcoming challenges.
- Commitment to repatriate remains of independence fighters.
- Plans for a 'Korea Memorial Road'.
Seoul, April 11 (NationPress) The acting President of South Korea, Han Duck-soo, emphasized the importance of national unity on Friday while commemorating the anniversary of the 1919 establishment of Korea's provisional government during Japan's colonial domination.
On this significant date, April 11, 1919, a coalition of Korean independence advocates founded a provisional government in Shanghai, China, sparked by a surge of anti-Japan protests, notably the renowned March 1 Independence Movement that year, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
Throughout a span of over 27 years, the provisional government transitioned to seven different cities in China, acting as the focal point of Korea's struggle to reclaim its independence from Japan, which had annexed Korea in 1910.
“As we celebrate the legacy of the provisional government today, we should contemplate the vital lessons of hope, unity, and overcoming crises,” stated Han during a ceremony at the National Memorial of the Korean Provisional Government, highlighting the serious challenges currently confronting the nation both domestically and internationally.
“Just as our patriotic heroes triumphed over a dark colonial era to restore the 'light of the Republic of Korea' through liberation, let us also strive together to bequeath a free, peaceful, and prosperous Republic of Korea to future generations,” he added.
Han also committed to making every effort to honor the independence fighters and their families. He specifically mentioned the government's ongoing efforts to repatriate the remains of independence fighters interred abroad and the construction of a 'Korea Memorial Road' that links important sites associated with the independence movement.
