Seoul Metropolitan Council Speaker Im Man-gyun marked the 81st Liberation Day by ringing the Bosingak Bell alongside descendants of independence patriots, reflecting on the significance of Korea's liberation.
Im attended the bell-ringing ceremony Saturday morning at Bosingak in Jongno-gu, Seoul, striking the bell with nine descendants of independence patriots and other dignitaries. Participants then joined in three cheers of "manse" and sang the Liberation Day anthem and "Praise of Seoul" together.
Held under the theme "The Sound of Liberation, Awakening the Future," the event featured a range of programs aimed at honoring the historical significance of liberation and passing its values on to future generations.
In addition to the bell-ringing, the event included an original musical and classical performances. Side programs included an AI photo experience booth open to the public and a tour of sites connected to the anti-Japanese independence movement.
Im said Seoul must build on its history of liberation to emerge as a city that leads the world. He added that the council would faithfully carry out its core role of checking and scrutinizing the city administration, pledging a citizen-centered approach to governance.
"Seoul, which shared the joy of liberation more passionately than anywhere else, is now moving forward as a global city that leads not just Korea but the world," Im said. "The Seoul Metropolitan Council will embody true 'council-ness' by fulfilling its responsibility of oversight and scrutiny, building a Seoul where future generations can hold greater hope and citizens can shine."
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