In 2025, Korea stands at a pivotal moment, commemorating 80 years of liberation while shaping its vision for the future. To mark this milestone, VANK has launched a campaign to design a new global order, calling on citizens to join in this ambitious vision.
This campaign goes beyond reflecting on liberation, emphasizing the need to overcome the structural distortions left by imperialism and great-power dominance. It aims to position Korea as a sovereign architect of a just and equitable international system. VANK defines the 80th Liberation Anniversary as ”the beginning of a journey toward leading a fair and cooperative global society,“ presenting Korea’s aspirations for the future.
The campaign recalls the early 20th century, when imperialism suppressed freedoms and cultures worldwide, leaving scars that persist in modern politics, economies, and societies. Having endured the pain of colonial rule, Korea has risen as an economic and cultural powerhouse.
VANK outlines three key initiatives for Korea’s role as a global leader:
1️⃣ Empowering youth to build global networks that bridge East and West, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
2️⃣ Encouraging creative and innovative actions by young people to address global challenges, establishing Korea’s next generation as champions of peace and justice.
3️⃣ Launching nationwide campaigns to amplify Korea’s vision and contributions worldwide, solidifying its place as a global leader.
A symbolic poster created for the campaign features an unstable “Jenga Tower”representing the flawed global system shaped by imperialism. Korea’s symbolic hand rebuilds the tower, adding blocks labeled “Justice,” “Equality,” and “Cooperation.” This imagery highlights Korea’s commitment to reconstructing an equitable international order.
Through this campaign, VANK underscores that true decolonization stems from international solidarity. It invites citizens to join Korea in designing a balanced and cooperative global future, fulfilling the ideals of liberation 80 years on.