National Liberation Day of Korea

National Liberation Day of Korea is observed every 15 August in both North and South Korea. It commemorates the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945 and the restoration of Korean sovereignty, making it the only political holiday shared by both Koreas.

• Observed on 15 August in both North and South Korea
• Commemorates the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945
• Known as Gwangbokjeol in the South and Choguk haebangŭi nal in the North
• Marked by parades, ceremonies, and national flag displays
• Only political holiday celebrated in both Koreas

What it is

National Liberation Day of Korea, known as Gwangbokjeol in the South and Choguk haebangŭi nal in the North, marks the anniversary of Korea’s liberation from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. Celebrated on 15 August, it is a deeply significant day for Koreans, symbolizing the return of national sovereignty and the enduring spirit of the Korean people. The holiday is a time for reflection on the hardships endured during occupation and a celebration of the nation’s resilience and independence. It is the only political holiday observed by both North and South Korea, uniting the peninsula in remembrance and pride.

Where it comes from

The holiday traces its origins to 15 August 1945, when Japan announced its unconditional surrender at the end of World War II, ending its occupation of Korea. This marked the first time since 1910 that Koreans regained control of their own land. The day also coincides with the establishment of the South Korean government in 1948. In the immediate aftermath of liberation, negotiations between Korean leaders and Japanese officials led to the release of prisoners and the transfer of authority to Korean hands. The division of the peninsula soon followed, but the date remains a shared symbol of freedom.

How it is celebrated

In South Korea, the day is marked by official ceremonies attended by the President, often held at the Independence Hall of Korea in Cheonan or the Sejong Center in Seoul. Streets and homes display the national flag, and the official Gwangbokjeol song is sung at ceremonies. Descendants of independence activists receive special recognition, including free entry to museums and complimentary travel on public transport. The government may issue special pardons. In North Korea, the holiday is sometimes chosen for weddings and, on major anniversaries, features military parades in Pyongyang’s Kim Il Sung Square. Both Koreas use the day to honor those who fought for independence and to reflect on national identity.

Joining in

Visitors in South Korea can witness public ceremonies in Seoul, particularly at the Independence Hall or Gwanghwamun Square. The city is adorned with flags, and the atmosphere is both solemn and festive. Museums and cultural sites often host special exhibitions, and the public is encouraged to participate in commemorative events. While North Korea’s celebrations are more formal and less accessible to outsiders, the shared sense of history is palpable across the peninsula on this day.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article National Liberation Day of Korea, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• National Liberation Day of Korea on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Official websiteOfficial site
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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