Aug 15, 2024
National Liberation Day of Korea 2024
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates National Liberation Day of Korea, otherwise known as 광복절 of Gwangbokjeol, which translates to “restoring the light.” This public holiday commemorates the day when Korea gained its freedom after 35 years of foreign rule.
On this day in 1945, Japan announced its unconditional surrender to Allied Forces, which meant Korea was officially restored to its former independent state. Exactly three years later, the first-ever South Korean government (formally called the Republic of Korea) was established.
On National Liberation Day, South Koreans attend celebrations such as parades, performances, and various cultural events. A moment of silence is observed to honor the memory of the patriotic martyrs and people raise theTaegukgi, which is prominently displayed and hoisted in ceremonies across the nation. The white, red, and blue national flag is surrounded by four sets of black bands, which each represent the sky, earth, water, and fire.
Happy National Liberation Day, Korea!
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