'Gloomy Scenes Captured on the 80th Anniversary of Liberation'

Today (15th) marks 'Liberation Day', a day to commemorate regaining national sovereignty from Japan on August 15, 1945, and the establishment of the Republic of Korea government on August 15, 1948.

The Liberation Day, which has granted us a normal daily life, is an important day whose significance must not fade even after many years.

This year is especially meaningful as it marks the '80th' anniversary of liberation; however, the absence of the national flag, Taegeukgi, in the usual apartment scenes evokes a sense of bitterness.

On the morning of the 15th, a whistleblower, Mr. A residing in an apartment in Jamsil, Seoul, was shocked to see that very few households were displaying the Taegeukgi.

While it has been noticeable that the number of households flying the national flag has been decreasing each year, witnessing an ordinary apartment scene even on the 80th anniversary of liberation was unexpected.

Mr. A stated, “There are about 100 households in my building, but only 1 or 2 of them have raised the Taegeukgi. It wasn’t like this in the past, and it’s really unfortunate.”

It is advisable to display the Taegeukgi on the five national holidays, which include March 1st (Independence Movement Day), July 17th (Constitution Day), August 15th (Liberation Day), October 3rd (National Foundation Day), and October 9th (Hangeul Day).

When raising the Taegeukgi, it should not be raised with any gaps between the flagpole and the flag. On days of mourning, such as Memorial Day (June 6th), the flag can be lowered to the width (vertical) of the flag itself.

The flag should be displayed in the center or left side when viewed from outside. In the case of apartment buildings or multi-family residences, it can be displayed on the individual flag holders set up on each household's balcony railings.

If, due to housing structure, the placement of the Taegeukgi needs to be adjusted, it can be adjusted freely, and it is also permissible to affix the flag to windows or front doors.

If there is a risk of the flag's dignity being compromised due to severe rain or strong winds (bad weather), the flag should not be displayed. In cases of temporary bad weather, the flag can be taken down and then raised again once the weather clears.

The Taegeukgi can be purchased from local government civil service centers (city, county, district offices and community centers), the internet post office (www.epost.go.kr), or online Taegeukgi retailers.

Image source: A scene from an apartment in Jamsil, Seoul on the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day (15th) / Photo = Insight, supplementary photo for understanding the article / Photo = Insight