Remembering the Victims: Hwaseong Commemorates the Jaeam-ri and Goju-ri Massacre 🕊️

Hwaseong City is set to hold a memorial ceremony to honor the victims of the Jaeam-ri and Goju-ri Massacre, which occurred during the Japanese colonial period. This event commemorates the sacrifices of the patriots who lost their lives during this tragic event.

Event Details

The memorial ceremony will take place on April 15th at 2 PM. The theme is ‘Beyond Remembrance to Peace, Beyond Sacrifice to Hope.’ The event aims to bring together citizens and descendants of independence activists to reflect on the historical significance of the massacre.

Ceremony Structure

1. Part 1: Floral tributes and homage will be paid at the Goju-ri 6 Martyrs’ Cemetery (located in Deokwoo Public Cemetery) and the Jaeam-ri 23 Martyrs’ Cemetery.
2. Part 2: The main ceremony will be held at the Hwaseong Independence Movement Memorial Hall’s lawn. It will feature memorial services, commemorative addresses, and performances to honor the fallen patriots.
3. Part 3: A special exhibition will open at the Hwaseong Independence Movement Memorial Hall. The exhibition, titled ‘Jo Mun-gi’s Time Bomb Has Not Yet Exploded,’ will highlight the anti-Japanese activities of Jo Mun-gi, a native of Hwaseong and a key figure in the bombing of the Bumin Hall during the Japanese colonial era.

Future Plans

Hwaseong City plans to establish the ‘Hwaseong City 4.15 Jaeam-ri and Goju-ri Promotion Committee’ to organize annual memorial ceremonies, ensuring that the noble spirit of the patriots is continuously honored.

Mayor’s Message

Hwaseong City Mayor Jeong Myeong-geun stated, “The sacrifices of these patriots are the foundation of today’s Republic of Korea, and we have a responsibility to remember and inherit their spirit. Hwaseong City will honor their legacy by becoming a city that upholds the values of peace, human rights, and community.”

This annual event is a significant reminder of the past and a commitment to a future of peace and respect for human rights. 🙏

Note: The Bumin Hall, mentioned in the article, was a significant building during the Japanese colonial era in Korea. It served as a symbol of Japanese power, and the bombing was a significant act of resistance by Korean independence activists.