A national records exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of liberation, "A Journey of Light Through 80 Years of History," is scheduled from Aug. 23-31 at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul's Jongno-gu District. (Ministry of Interior and Safety)

By Jeon Misun 

An exhibition from Aug. 23-31 will commemorate the 80th anniversary of national liberation by looking back at eight decades of history from the moment of independence to the present.

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety on Aug. 21 said that along with the Organizing Committee for the 80th Liberation Anniversary, it will host "A Journey of Light Through 80 Years of History," a celebration of historical records, at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul's Jongno-gu District.

The exhibition has six sections: "The Joy of That Day" (prologue); "Now, Our Country" (Part 1); "Divided Destiny, One Dream" (2); "Growth Achieved Through Challenge" (3); "From the Square to Everyday Life" (4); "K in the World" (5); and "Move Forward Together" (epilogue).

Eighty pillar-shaped installations will be shown symbolizing the milestone, along with LED displays and over 160 historical materials. Digital techniques to be used include an interactive wall that responds to visitor participation.

The prologue has scenes of Koreans rejoicing at the news of liberation, footage of the surrender ceremony at the former building of the Japanese Government-General on Sept. 9, 1945, and a Korean-language broadcast by Voice of America on Japan's unconditional surrender on the morning of Aug. 15 that year before the Japanese emperor's official declaration of defeat.

In addition, the exhibition offers an 80-year archival journey in one place, covering the establishment of the Republic of Korea, economic growth and democratization through hard work and challenge amid national division, war and ruin, and Korea's global status today.

"You can experience the Republic of Korea's history from liberation to the present through records," Minister of the Interior and Safety Yun Hojung said. "I hope this is a time to feel pride and self-esteem for the past 80 years and strengthen our hopes and aspirations for the future."

msjeon22@korea.kr