Liberation Day: Korea, India celebrate historical day together

By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Akansha Arya

Photos = Akansha Arya, Korea.net DB

Korea and India both share Independence Day or Liberation Day on Aug. 15. Both countries observe this day as a public holiday and it holds big importance in the history of both countries. This year, Korea is celebrating its 72nd anniversary of Liberation Day and India is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

The first country that was liberated after World War II was Korea. It got independence from Japanese control after the victory of the Allied powers in World War II in 1945. India was the second Country that got Independence after World War II from British control in 1947. Apparently, the British chose Aug. 15 to hand over power because it was the second anniversary of the Japanese surrender to Allied powers in World War II and this is how India and Korea have come to celebrate the day together.

India and Korea not only share the happiness of getting Independence on the same day, but also share the pain of division and sacrifice of many independence fighters. With the division, Korea was divided into South Korea and North Korea and India was divided into India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Korea was under Japanese control for 35 years whereas India was under British control for more than a century.

In Korea, Liberation Day is known as Gwangbokjeol, which means "the day the light returned.” In India, it's known as Swatantra Divas in Hindi. As described by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, in his speech Tryst with Destiny speech, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” Since independence, India and Korea have both been liberal and democratic countries and are doing economically well. In Korea, the first government was headed by Syngman Rhee who was elected as the first president of Korea and in India by Jawaharlal Nehru who was elected as the first prime minister of India.

Celebrations in Korea

In Korea, many events and activities take place during the whole day. An official ceremony with the president in attendance takes place at the Independence Hall of Korea in Cheonan or at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts. A parade is held to showcase the military power and heritage of the country.

All public buildings, as well as many households, hoist the national flag, the Taegeukgi. Flags are flown all over the streets, as well. The official Gwangbokjeol song is sung at official ceremonies to pay homage to the freedom fighters. Descendants of the freedom fighters can get free rides on public transportation on this day. On this day, pardons are given. Many people can be seen in traditional Korean Hanbok clothes, as well. It’s an important day in Korean history that holds a dear place in everyone’s hearts and everyone comes out to celebrate this day enthusiastically.

 

Celebrations in India

In India as well, many events and activities take place throughout the whole day. An official ceremony takes place in New Delhi where the prime minister hoists the national flag, the Tiranga, at the Red Fort, followed by a march past of divisions of the Indian Armed Forces and paramilitary forces. Parades and cultural events showcase diverse cultural traditions and pay homage to India's freedom fighters. All public building, as well as many households, hoists the national flag. The national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," is sung. Sweets are distributed. People can be seen wearing replicas of the national flag. It’s an important day in Indian history that holds a dear place in everyone’s hearts and everyone comes out to celebrate this day enthusiastically.

 

wisdom117@korea.kr

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