Shin Seok-jeong’s poem ‘Kkotdeompul’ featured in Liberation Day speech

During the 81st Liberation Day ceremony, President Lee Jae-myung quoted the opening lines of Shin Seok-jeong’s poem ‘Kkotdeompul’ to honor the sacrifices of independence activists who sought light amidst darkness.

Originally published in 1946, ‘Kkotdeompul’ explores the complexities of liberation and the vision for a better community following the Japanese colonial period. The poem’s inclusion in the national commemorative speech highlights its enduring relevance to contemporary Korean society.

The Seokjeong Literary Museum in Buan is currently hosting a special exhibition titled ‘How Do We Become a Poem?’, which showcases the literary world of Shin Seok-jeong. The exhibition focuses on how his work transcends regional boundaries to address universal themes of human dignity, freedom, and peace.