Chonnam National University (CNU) has commemorated the 45th anniversary of the May 18 Democratization Movement by organizing a series of events held between May 12 and 18. The purpose of the commemorative program was to foster communication between the May 18 generation and younger people, while ensuring the spirit of May 18 is preserved and transmitted. The series of commemorative events began with a mural painting activity, held on May 12 at May 18 Square and Minjumaru.
Shin Seung-hwan, the president of the General Student Council, said, “To encourage active student participation in the university’s event series, we organized a mural painting activity that reinterprets the existing mural, ‘Painting of Gwangju Democratic Uprising,’ displayed on the wall of College of Education 1 building. We collaborated with students from the College of Arts to design the mural. Contrary to initial concerns about low participation, the event was a success thanks to the large participation of students.” Moon Ha-yun (Senior, Faculty of Economics), one of the participants of the event, said, “I hope May becomes a month where we first think of the May 18 Democratization Movement, even though it’s a month filled with many festivals and clear weather.”
This was followed by several events and activities, including the May 18 Commemorative Goods Design Competition, a relay blood donation campaign, a screening of May 18-themed movies, a visit to the May 18 National Cemetery, a ceremony commemorating the 45th anniversary of the May 18 Democratization Movement, a sharing rice balls of unity event, a tour of the CNU Democracy Trail, and a March for Democracy and Peace from CNU to Geumnam-ro.
Kim Yang-hyun, the vice president of CNU, explained the significance of the event sereies, “As the epicenter of the May 18 Democratization Movement, CNU has a duty to carry on and develop its spirit. This aspect had been somewhat overlooked. That is why the new presidential executive planned this event series to honor and revive the legacy of May 18, a cornerstone of our history and pride. We hope it remains a lasting festival of democracy that connects generations and keeps the May spirit alive.”
Many people, including members of the university community, local figures, and residents, participate in the week’s events throughout the commemoration period. The week’s events allowed participants opportunities to engage with history in a festival-like atmosphere, bringing together those who experienced the May 18 and younger generations.
By Choi Ji-yoon, Reporter