Independence Movement Day

This day commemorates the time when Korean’s resisted the occupation of the Japanese and fought their independence. It is sometimes called Samil Independence because Samil literally means “Three-One Movement” or “March First Movement”. It can also be referred to Manse Demonstrations because as the activists were rallying they were shouting the word “Manse”, which meant “Hooray!”.

It all started on March 1, 1919 when the South Koreans were rallying for their independence when Japan ruled their country after the end of the Joseon Dynasty. This movement was one of the earliest public displays of Korean resistance.

The Japanese Empire started repressing the freedom of the Koreans during 1905. Until the “Fourtain Points” (a statement of principles of peace) by President Woodrow Wilson declared at the Paris Peace Conference in January 1919.

There were 33 activists who formed the Samil Movement in Taehwagwan Seoul and read the Korean Declaration of Independence.

Then on May 24, 1919, March 1 was designated a national holiday. 

(Photo from wikipedia)

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