Korean diplomat joins Milwaukee’s Korean American community in celebration of 79th Liberation Day

EXPLORING KOREA: Stories from Milwaukee to the DMZ and across a divided Peninsula. This special series explores historical sites and cultural traditions from across the Korean Peninsula, building a bridge back to the search for identity in Milwaukee. From the occupation of Korea at the end of World War II, to Korean War veterans in Milwaukee, veterans from Milwaukee who served in later years at the DMZ, adopted South Korean children who grew up in Milwaukee, different waves of the South Korean diaspora who moved to Milwaukee to raise their families, and even a defector from North Korea, their stories share generations of Korean and American experiences. https://mkeind.com/koreanstories

The Milwaukee Korean Association celebrated the 79th Anniversary of the Korean Liberation Day in August at Greenfield Park, bringing together the local Korean American community for a day of remembrance and festivities.

August 15, 1945, marks one of the most significant moments in Korean history, the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule. That date saw an end to 35 years of Japanese occupation, a period marked by intense cultural suppression, forced assimilation, and widespread exploitation.

The day is known as “Gwangbokjeol” (광복절) in South Korea and means “Restoration of Light Day.” It is celebrated annually as a national holiday in both North and South Korea, symbolizing the reclaiming of national sovereignty and identity. It is the only political holiday shared by both countries.

The Milwaukee event featured speeches from various community leaders. Among the attendees was Junghan Kim, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago, who traveled from Illinois to join the celebration. He used the opportunity to share his thoughts on the significance of the day and its importance to the Korean community in Milwaukee.

In his address, Consul General Kim emphasized the importance of both Chicago and Milwaukee in the broader context of the Korean-American community.

“I understand the importance of large urban centers like Chicago in shaping our community’s presence in the United States. However, Milwaukee holds a special place as well,” said Consul General Kim. “Milwaukee has always been a vital part of our Korean-American community, maintaining a close and meaningful relationship with Korea, particularly in areas such as politics, economics, and academics.”

Consul General Kim said that expanding connections was vital for future growth, and that he was honored to spend time with members of Milwaukee’s Korean community on such a special day.

“It’s important that smaller Korean communities, such as the one in Milwaukee, receive proper attention,” said Consul General Kim. “Effective communication is key to ensuring that every community, regardless of its size, feels supported.”

Regarding the future of the Korean community in Milwaukee, Consul General Kim said the challenges they faced were not unique. Many Korean communities across the Midwest were experiencing difficulties, including dwindling numbers and an aging population.

“Despite these challenges, Milwaukee’s community has strong assets, such as dedicated board members and leaders, which I believe will help them maintain their momentum,” said Consul General Kim.

In South Korea, Gwangbokjeol is a day of both remembrance and celebration. It is marked by various activities, including an official ceremony often attended by the President, patriotic displays of the South Korean flag, and cultural events that emphasize national pride.

Public buildings, homes, and streets are adorned with the South Korean flag, and special events are held to honor the memory of those who fought for independence. The day also includes the singing of the “Gwangbokjeol song,” which reflects on the sacrifices made and the joy of liberation.

Japan’s annexation of Korea began in 1910 and was characterized by a brutal regime that sought to erase Korean identity. The Japanese government imposed the Japanese language and culture on Koreans, banned the use of the Korean language in schools, and even forced Koreans to adopt Japanese names. Economic exploitation was rampant, with Koreans often coerced into labor for the Japanese war effort.

The liberation of Korea occurred in the broader context of World War II. Japan’s surrender to the Allied forces on August 15, 1945, following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, brought an end of its imperial ambitions. For Korea, the surrender meant the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a new chapter in its history.

The liberation, however, was not without its complications. The Korean Peninsula was immediately divided into two zones of occupation, with the Soviet Union controlling the north and the United States controlling the south. The division eventually solidified into the separate states of North Korea and South Korea, leading to the Korean War in 1950 and the enduring division that remains to this day.

In North Korea, the day is also celebrated but with a different emphasis. Known as just “Liberation Day” or Chogukhaebangŭi nal, the celebration typically involves a focus on the leadership of Kim Il-sung, who is falsely credited with driving the Japanese out of Korea in North Korean historiography. It is also an opportunity to reinforce the regime’s distorted historical narrative.

As one of the major gatherings for the Korean American community in the area, the Milwaukee event featured a picnic with traditional Korean food and various activities that celebrated Korean heritage and history. It was a day for the Korean community to come together and share their cultural roots with others.

In addition to the Korean Liberation Day event, the Korean American Association of Milwaukee also hosts a Korea Day celebration at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in October, which includes cultural performances, food tastings, and concerts, to further promote awareness and appreciation of Korean culture within the broader Milwaukee community.

The event serves as an opportunity to experience and celebrate the diversity of Korean culture, while also fostering connections between Koreans and non-Koreans. The Korea Day event reflects the growing interest in Korean culture, often referred to as “Hallyu” or the “Korean Wave,” which includes a global fascination with Korean pop culture, food, and traditions​.

Consul General Kim reflected on the strong alliance between the United States and Korea, noting how the relationship has remained steadfast over many decades.

“The United States is Korea’s strongest ally, and our relationship has never been stronger,” said Consul General Kim. “It is also my hope that each member of the Korean community in Milwaukee remains healthy, continues to achieve personal success, and contributes to the strength of this city. I encourage everyone to stay connected with their heritage in Korea and to support the strong partnership between Korea and the United States.”

To strengthen the Korean community’s presence in Milwaukee, Consul General Kim said it was crucial to build strong connections within their network and collaborate with other local groups. By actively engaging in those relationships, the Korean population could identify and develop opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the broader society.

Such efforts would not only enrich the local area but also strengthen the bonds between the Korean American population across the region. A more integrated and supportive environment would be a benefit to everyone.

“I believe that by working together, we can strengthen Milwaukee and further promote the Korean American culture,” Consul General Kim added.