To mark Korea’s 80th Liberation Anniversary in 2025, Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK is launching a campaign to honor the legacy of independence activists. The initiative aims to collaborate with local governments to create themed walking trails where citizens can retrace the steps of independence activists and experience their historical significance firsthand.

By establishing these “Independence Activist Roads,” VANK seeks to highlight Korea’s triumph over Japanese colonial rule and honor the sacrifices of those who fought for independence. These paths will connect historical sites where activists lived and worked, fostering a deeper understanding of Korea’s national identity.

One example is Seoul’s Mangwoo Park, where a trail commemorating figures like Bang Jeong-hwan, Han Yong-un, and Jang Deok-soo has already been established. VANK plans to expand this model nationwide, working with municipalities to create immersive historical experiences.

This initiative offers a participatory way for citizens to engage with history while boosting cultural tourism. It also serves as an educational platform to ensure that the sacrifices of independence activists are remembered by future generations.

Posters for the campaign can be downloaded from the VANK official website and the global photo-sharing site Flickr. VANK encourages the public to share these materials widely to spread awareness.

Park Ki-tae, head of VANK, stated, “Following the footsteps of independence activists and remembering their sacrifices is a meaningful way to celebrate Korea’s 80th Liberation Anniversary.” He emphasized that properly preserving history is essential to completing the legacy of liberation.

VANK will continue developing projects that promote Korea’s independence movement and raise global awareness of its historical significance.