On August 15, 2026, the "81st Liberation Day Commemoration Ceremony" held in Vancouver, Canada, served as a meaningful event where older and younger…
On August 15, 2026, the "81st Liberation Day Commemoration Ceremony" held in Vancouver, Canada, served as a meaningful event where older and younger generations gathered to deeply share the true significance of Liberation Day.
Jointly hosted by the Korean Association of BC and the Korean Cultural Youth Ambassadors Society (KCYAS), the commemoration took place at 11:30 AM in the Conference Room of the SCU Korean Credit Union Coquitlam Main Branch. Around 100 guests and attendees gathered to reflect on the meaning of liberation, including Lee Woo-seok, President of the Korean War Veterans Association, alongside veteran elders; Lee Kwang-seok, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Vancouver; Choi Byung-ha, Deputy Minister of the BC Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation; and Jang Min-woo, President of the Korean Veterans Association Western Canada Chapter.
The event opened with a performance depicting the process of the independence movement, based on the independent film <The Tree Remembers>, created through the passion of young Korean filmmakers in Vancouver. Through the opening performance, the desperate struggles, noble sacrifices, and unyielding spirits of unnamed independence fighters fighting for national independence were vividly portrayed on stage. Jointly prepared by the film crew and KCYAS students, this stage delivered the unforgettable history of Korea deep into the hearts of today's youth.
The main ceremony that followed featured celebratory remarks from Consul General Lee Kwang-seok, including reading the celebratory address by President Lee Jae-myung, as well as congratulatory speeches from key figures. These speeches honored the sacrifices of ancestors and offered valuable perspectives on how the next generation should carry this legacy forward.
Park Kyung-joon, President of the Korean Association, stated in his welcoming address, "The freedom and peace we enjoy today were earned through the noble sacrifices of our patriotic martyrs," emphasizing that "we must ensure our children living in Canada never forget Korean history and their proud identity as Koreans."
Consul General Lee Kwang-seok, making his official debut following his recent appointment, delivered his greetings and read the 81st Liberation Day address on behalf of President Lee Jae-myung. Through the address, he honored the noble spirit of ancestors who dedicated themselves to the nation's independence while conveying the national vision and true meaning of liberation to the Vancouver Korean community.
Choi Byung-ha, Deputy Minister of the BC Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, defined 'Gwangbok' (Liberation) in his speech: "'Gwangbok' means 'the day light was restored,' which signifies freedom—a priceless treasure obtained through the blood and sweat of countless unnamed individuals." He further stressed the mission of future generations, stating, "As our patriotic martyrs won this freedom and our parents' generation firmly guarded it, it is now up to our descendants to expand the value of this freedom across the world."
Jang min-woo, President of the Korean Veterans Association Western Canada Chapter, reminded the room that Korea's current standing wouldn't exist without its past. "The fact that South Korea has grown into a top 10 economic power and a top 5 powerhouse in military and culture is entirely thanks to the noble sacrifices of our ancestors," he said, emphasizing the need for solid history education so painful chapters are never repeated.
The morning wrapped up with attendees of all ages raising three cheers of Manse, sharing both the joy of Liberation Day and a deep sense of pride. What made the event truly special was how heavily involved the younger generation was. From the KCYAS students who put together the opening performance to the youth reporters from Hana TV covering the crowd and the Evergreen Youth Association members helping drive the day, local youth took center stage—making the reflection on Korea’s history feel remarkably personal and alive.
Reported by Jaemin Woo
