March 1st Movement in South Korea : Seodaemun Prison

              The first time I arrived at Seodaemun prison, I was struck by the hulking brick façade, similar in many ways to the brick buildings of my own country, rare in Korea. These red bricks, out of place on Korean streets, tell the story of the dark past of tyrannical rule and occupation. They still stand, no longer working to trap the Korean people, but as a symbol of the strength of the activists and freedom fighters who met opposition with every breath and yet persevered in the hopes of freedom outside the prison walls for their people.
                     

                As an American child, we learn about the yoke that our forefathers broke. About the secret meetings of rebels and activists constructing the Declaration of Independence and working in the face of a mighty foe. About the oppression of a nation and the small band of fighters and philosophers that demanded more for their people. It’s a David versus Goliath story and I’m certain every Korean person would also recognize it. It is a history of rebellion and patriotism that echoes on both American and Korean shores. Maybe this is one of the fundamental ideological bridges that has kept our nations close for so many years.

                                     



                March 1st is the day the Korean Declaration was spoken, by a gathering of few, many of whom would suffer for their words. It is difficult to imagine the bravery it took to speak those words, which meant certain death and torture. The activists showed that the words of a few could be the stones that defeat the giant. Those powerful words of equality and pride still echo in the minds of the Korean people today. Now more than ever it is vital to see that the thoughts and actions of the people must be reflected in their treatment by the governing bodies. The legacies of the brave men and women who joined the March 1st movement defied the systems of oppression and reminds us all of true courage and sacrifice. On this day, we look towards the future with hope of peace, but never forget the actions that happened a hundred years ago today.