North Gyeongsang Province marks Dokdo Month with flash mob, lecture and art exhibition

North Gyeongsang Province brought together youth education, commendations for Dokdo protection and historical and cultural exhibitions to mark October's Dokdo Month.

The 2026 Dokdo Month commemorative event was held Wednesday at the auditorium of the province's eastern branch office. About 100 people attended, including members of the provincial assembly's special committee for Dokdo protection, students and parents from the Pohang Youth Green Officer School, and individuals recognized for their contributions to protecting Dokdo.

The event opened with a Dokdo flash mob performed by staff from the East Sea regional headquarters alongside youth participants. Kim Young-su, director of the Dokdo Research Institute at the Northeast Asian History Foundation, delivered a special lecture titled "The Russo-Japanese War and Dokdo," examining the islets' history and the significance of their territorial sovereignty.

The province presented commendations to Dokdo protection contributors, including Police Lieutenant Kim Nam-su of the Ulleung Security Unit, who carries out on-site duties on Dokdo, in recognition of their service.

The venue featured award-winning works from the 16th Dokdo Art and Literature Competition alongside original folk paintings depicting Dokdo and historical figure An Yong-bok.

The exhibition continues at the eastern branch office through Friday.

North Gyeongsang Province established Dokdo Month by provincial ordinance on July 4, 2005, in response to Shimane Prefecture's designation of Feb. 22 as "Takeshima Day."

"We hope that young people, as the next generation, will use this event as an opportunity to learn about Dokdo's history and value, and to deepen their love for Dokdo," said Choi Young-suk, head of the province's East Sea regional headquarters. "North Gyeongsang Province will continue to pursue a wide range of educational and cultural activities to raise awareness of Korea's beautiful Dokdo."