In a significant collaborative effort to mark the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule, the Independence Hall of Korea and the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the nation’s largest Buddhist denomination, have jointly announced a commemorative event titled “2025 Korean Independence Movement and Buddhism.” The multifaceted program, running from April 22nd to May 18th at the Independence Hall in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, aims to illuminate the often-understated yet crucial contributions of the Buddhist community to Korea’s struggle for independence.
The commemorative initiative commenced on April 22nd with the inauguration of a special exhibition dedicated to the intricate relationship between the Korean independence movement and Buddhism. This exhibition serves as the cornerstone of the month-long event, providing historical context and showcasing artifacts that highlight the active participation of Buddhist monks, nuns, and lay practitioners in the fight against Japanese occupation (1910-1945).
From May 1st onwards, the program will expand to encompass a diverse array of cultural and educational activities. A prominent feature will be the display of traditional Buddhist lanterns, a vibrant tradition recognized as the Yeondeunghoe, a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This exhibition will not only showcase the artistic beauty of these lanterns but also subtly connect their historical significance to the spirit of resilience and cultural preservation that underpinned the independence movement.
Complementing the exhibitions, the Independence Hall will offer specialized educational programs and guided tours that draw connections between the permanent exhibits and the specific role of Buddhism in the independence struggle. These sessions will provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and contributions made by Buddhist figures. Furthermore, interactive experiential activities related to both Buddhist culture and the independence movement will be available, offering engaging learning opportunities for participants of all ages.
A unique aspect of the event is the inclusion of repository tours, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the Independence Hall’s collection and the preservation of historical materials related to the independence movement, potentially including documents and artifacts connected to Buddhist involvement. A public lecture featuring prominent scholars and historians will delve into the nuanced history of the Korean independence movement and the significant, often overlooked, role played by the Buddhist community.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility and outreach, the program also incorporates online initiatives. These include the provision of information on pilgrimage routes to historically significant Buddhist sites that served as hubs for independence activities. Additionally, an online event will encourage public engagement in learning about national memorial facilities associated with the independence movement, fostering a broader understanding of this pivotal period in Korean history.
A particularly poignant highlight of the commemorative event is scheduled for Saturday, May 17th. On this day, a special stage erected at the House of the Nation within the Independence Hall grounds will host a joint memorial service, presided over by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. This solemn ceremony will serve to honor the Buddhist monks, nuns, and laypersons who dedicated their lives and efforts to the cause of Korean independence. Following the memorial service, a gala performance of the acclaimed documentary musical Bi. Seu. Dok. (비·스·독), which recounts the inspiring stories of Buddhist nuns who actively participated in the independence movement, will take place. This performance promises to be a powerful and moving tribute to a lesser-known aspect of the struggle for liberation.
The collaboration between the Independence Hall and the Jogye Order underscores the enduring legacy of the Korean independence movement and the vital role played by various segments of Korean society, including the religious community. While often overshadowed by other narratives, the involvement of Korean Buddhism in the fight for freedom was significant. During the Japanese colonial period, Buddhist temples served as clandestine meeting places for independence activists, and monks and nuns actively participated in protests, provided refuge to those resisting Japanese rule, and disseminated nationalist ideas. Figures like the poet-monk Manhae Han Yong-un stand as iconic symbols of this intersection between Buddhism and the pursuit of national sovereignty. Han Yong-un was a key leader in the March 1st Movement of 1919, a nationwide demonstration against Japanese rule, and his writings eloquently articulated the spirit of Korean independence.
Beyond individual contributions, the Buddhist community as a whole played a crucial role in preserving Korean cultural identity during a period when the Japanese colonial government sought to suppress it. Buddhist institutions maintained Korean traditions, language, and historical consciousness, providing a vital counter-narrative to colonial assimilation policies. The spirit of compassion and social engagement inherent in Buddhist teachings also motivated many within the community to actively resist injustice and fight for the liberation of their nation.
The “2025 Korean Independence Movement and Buddhism” event represents a significant step towards acknowledging and celebrating this important aspect of Korean history. By offering a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, cultural performances, and online resources, the Independence Hall and the Jogye Order aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of the Korean independence movement and the enduring contributions of the Buddhist community to the establishment of modern Korea. Information regarding participation in each program can be accessed through the Independence Hall’s official website and social media channels, inviting both local and international audiences to engage with this important historical narrative. The Independence Hall has affirmed its commitment to future collaborations with various religious organizations to continue promoting the spirit of independence and national pride.
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