The Korea Heritage Service is presenting a comprehensive special exhibition titled "The Radiant Heritage of Independence" at Deoksugung Palace in central Seoul, running from August 12 through October 12. This significant cultural event commemorates the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule, showcasing more than 110 artifacts directly connected to Korea's anti-Japanese resistance movement, with many items being displayed to the public for the very first time.
The exhibition features an extraordinary collection of original independence documents, diplomatic diaries, and calligraphy pieces created by revered independence activists. These carefully curated artifacts highlight the enduring spirit of resistance that ultimately contributed to Korea's liberation on August 15, 1945. The display serves as both a historical record and a tribute to the countless individuals who fought against colonial oppression.
"Anti-colonial heritage is not just a relic of the past," said Huh Min, administrator of the Korea Heritage Service, during a press briefing on Monday. "It is the history and spirit that enabled (South) Korea today and represents the identity of our people. It is a cultural legacy we must pass on to future generations." This statement underscores the contemporary relevance of the historical artifacts and their importance in shaping modern Korean identity.
The exhibition is thoughtfully organized into five distinct thematic sections that tell the complete story of Korea's struggle for independence. These sections are titled: "Commitment: The Heritage of Sovereignty and Salvation," "The Uprising: The Heritage of the People's Cries for Freedom," "Tribulation: The Heritage of National Protection," "Aspiration: The Heritage of Liberation," and "Jubilation: The Heritage of Homecoming." Each section presents artifacts and narratives that illustrate different phases of the independence movement.
Among the most notable highlights is the Anti-Japanese Volunteer Letters, an invaluable collection of documents from Japan that detail Japan's violent suppression of Korean militias during the late Joseon period. These documents were successfully repatriated from Japan in July 2024, making their inclusion in this exhibition particularly timely and significant. Another remarkable piece is "Nokjuk," a piece of calligraphy by independence martyr Ahn Jung-geun that was recovered at an auction in April, bringing this important cultural artifact back to Korea.
The exhibition also features "Misailrok," the diplomatic diary of Lee Beom-jin, who served as a Korean envoy to the United States in 1896. This diary offers fascinating insights into Korea's early foreign relations and language practices during the Korean Empire period, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the diplomatic efforts of the time. These diplomatic records demonstrate the sophisticated international engagement that Korean officials pursued even under difficult circumstances.
One of the exhibition's centerpieces is the Taegeukgi from Jingwansa Temple, a rare Korean flag that was discovered in a Buddhist temple and has since been designated as a national treasure. This artifact is particularly significant because it underscores the involvement of diverse sectors of Korean society, including the Buddhist community, in actively resisting Japanese rule. The flag represents the widespread nature of the resistance movement across all levels of society.
Additionally, the exhibition features the personal memoirs of Seo Yeong-hae, a diplomat and independence activist who spearheaded Korean resistance efforts in France. These memoirs provide insight into the international dimensions of the Korean independence movement and demonstrate how Korean activists worked tirelessly around the world to garner support for their cause.
"This exhibition was designed to highlight the determination of those who sought to preserve sovereignty under dire circumstances," explained Hwang Sun-ik, a professor of Korean history at Kookmin University who curated the exhibition. "It's not just about a few individuals. It's about the collective cry of a nation – Manse! – and the perseverance to continue our hopes and dreams in the face of hardship." This perspective emphasizes the collective nature of the resistance movement.
The choice of Deoksugung Palace as the exhibition venue carries deep symbolic significance. This royal palace served as Emperor Gojong's residence and was itself a key site of resistance during the colonial period. "This very place witnessed the turbulent signing of the Eulsa Protectorate Treaty and military reform efforts," Huh noted. "It was in front of Daehanmun Gate that crowds gathered during the March 1st Movement. We hope this setting gives visitors a deeper emotional resonance."
The March 1st Movement, referenced by Huh, was a series of nationwide mass public protests against Japanese colonial rule that took place on March 1, 1919. This movement marked a pivotal moment in Korean resistance history and demonstrated the unified will of the Korean people to regain their independence.
To ensure that people across the entire country can participate in this important historical tribute, the organizers have planned additional installations beyond the main Seoul exhibition. Informational booths will be set up in museums located in Busan, Gwangju, Ulsan, and Mokpo in South Jeolla Province, allowing visitors throughout South Korea to engage with this significant commemoration of their nation's liberation.
