Korea's Liberation Day: Meaning, History, and Why It Matters in 2025
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Korea's Liberation Day: Meaning, History, and Why It Matters in 2025 Do you know why August 15 is a public holiday in South Korea? Liberation Day, known as "Gwangbokjeol," is more than just a day off—it’s a powerful reminder of Korea’s freedom from Japanese rule. Let’s explore the meaning, history, and significance of this national day, including what to expect for its 80th anniversary in 2025. 1. What does Liberation Day mean? 2. When and how did it begin? 3. Why is 2025 important? 4. Common events and how it’s celebrated 5. Understanding Liberation Day, simply 6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What does Liberation Day mean? "Gwangbokjeol" literally means "the day the light returned." It marks Korea's liberation from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule on August 15, 1945. The word "gwangbok" signifies the recovery of sovereignty and national identity—not just political fr...