Beginning on March 1, 1919, the Samil Movement (삼일 운동) is a symbolic day for Korea designated by the country as a national holiday to honor the independence movement against the 1910-45 Japanese colonial rule of Korea. Koreans led by 33 leaders across the country proclaimed Korea’s independence and spread the statement nationwide, risking their lives under the surveillance of Japan.
During the Japanese occupation, Koreans were forced to change their names into Japanese to prevent the use of Korean (Hangul) and further eradicate our national spirit. Yet the national spirit was not to be vanquished. The events that started in Pagoda Park fueled a worldwide concern for the rights of Japanese occupied Korea.
Through much loss of life, imprisonment, injury and civil injustice that transpired that day, the Korean voice was heard, and heard loudly. Japanese Governor General Hasegawa Yoshimichi took responsibility and was replaced by Governor Saito Makoto who was willing to give the Korean people more rights and freedoms than the previous leaders.
Cheongwaedae (청와대) is the official residence of the South Korean President. Also known as the Blue House - Photo by Kevin J. Brenneman
This effect also led to liberation of women’s rights in Korea. Previously before the events of March 1st, women were made to work in almost slave like conditions under Japanese rule. After the monumental independence movement however, women could speak their minds through such printed periodicals such as Sin Yoja and Yoja Kye.
The movement being one of a kind for its non violent philosophy was a model for further movements in countries such as India, France, Poland, and the Philippines in following years.
Marking the 91st anniversary of the unarmed civil uprising against Japanese colonial rule, there will be a national ceremony at City Hall on March 1st at 11AM.
This year (2010) is a special celebration to celebrate the strength of the Korean people. There are a variety of interesting attractions prepared for the upcoming festival like cheering the Vancouver Olympic athletes, large Korean flags everywhere, dancing, food, and energetic flash-mobs.
Written by Robin Lee Purdy
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