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To pay tribute to the patriotic Korean martyrs who participated in the “March 1 Movement” and were killed fighting for the nation’s independence from Japan, the Korea Liberation Association will have a commemoration ceremony at the Taegakbi in Tapgol Park on March 1 at 2 p.m.

On this day, 85 years ago, the sudden change in international situation in the wake of World War One stimulated a group of religious leaders and students to spearhead what spread into an independence struggle both at home and abroad.

Desperate cries for Korea's independence filled the streets on March 1st, 1919 as Japanese troops leveled their rifles against all those in protest of its colonization. Triggering the unprecedented nationwide movement was the Declaration of Independence delivered by 33 religious leaders and student activists in the heart of Seoul.

More than seven thousand lives were perished at the gunfire while thousands more were arrested across the peninsula. But the movement paved the way for a consolidated effort by leaders in various fields, later leading to the establishment of Korea's Provisional Government in Shanghai, China in the same year.

The story of Yoo Kwan-soon who stood at the forefront is still considered the role model of patriotism. The 15-year-old student distributed hand-drawn Taegukgi, Korea's national flag, leading the peaceful yet powerful demonstrations in South Chungcheong Province.

Although the movement was suppressed by Japanese troops, the spirit and bloodshed by hundreds for Korea's Independence are still remembered to this day in honor of those who sacrificed themselves.

Meanwhile, An Joo-seob, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, will attend the commemoration ceremony along with survivors of the 33 patriots who planned the "March 1 Movement", members of the Korea Liberation Association and other institutions related to the independence movement, and about 500 citizens. Earlier, at the Aunae Market in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, the “Aunae Beacon Festival” was held from Feb. 28 to 29. For two days, Korean traditional folk musical, puppet shows, singing contests, commemoration ceremonies, and torchlight demonstrations attracted spectators.

(Yu Yong-won, kysu@chosun.com )